James Earl Carter Jr. was born on October 1, 1924, in Plains, Georgia, into a hardworking and disciplined family. His father, James Earl Carter Sr., was a successful businessman who invested in farmland, while his mother, Bessie Lillian Carter, worked as a nurse at the Wise Sanitarium, where he was born. Growing up in a rural community, Carter learned the value of humility, responsibility, and service from an early age. He attended local schools and, from 1937 to 1941, studied at Plains High School.

Determined to serve his country, Carter pursued his dream of joining the military. In 1943, he was accepted into the United States Naval Academy, following in the footsteps of his father, who had served in the U.S. Army Quartermaster Corps during World War I. After graduating, Carter married Rosalynn Smith in 1946, beginning a lifelong partnership built on shared values and mutual respect.

After leaving the Navy, Carter returned to Georgia to focus on his family and the family business. In 1961, he built a modest ranch-style home for his wife and their four children. That same home later became his residence after leaving the White House, reflecting his commitment to a simple life. Unlike many former presidents, Carter chose not to capitalize on his time in office for financial gain, once stating that becoming wealthy was never his ambition.

Despite financial challenges, including debt from the family peanut business, Carter maintained a comfortable life through writing and his presidential pension. Known for his humility, he often shopped at local stores and flew on commercial airlines. Even after his presidency, he remained active, teaching at Emory University and serving in his Baptist church, continuing a lifetime dedicated to service and integrity.