In the history of the United States, only 45 men have held the position of president. While some have passed away, others are still living and making their mark on the world. This Presidents Day, it's worth taking a moment to reflect on the living former U.S. presidents and what they are doing today.
At the top of the list is Jimmy Carter. At 98 years old, he is the longest-living president in American history. He has been an active humanitarian since leaving office in 1981, founding the Carter Center and working to promote human rights and democracy around the world.
Barack Obama and Bill Clinton also belong to the exclusive group of living former U.S. leaders who can be celebrated this Presidents Day. Obama has been busy since leaving office in 2017, writing books, producing documentaries, and speaking out on issues such as climate change and gun control. Clinton has also stayed active, focusing on his philanthropic work through the Clinton Foundation and speaking engagements.
George H.W. Bush, the 41st president, passed away in 2018, leaving behind a legacy of public service and a commitment to volunteerism. His son, George W. Bush, who served as the 43rd president, has also been busy since leaving office, working on his paintings and supporting veterans through the Bush Institute.
Donald Trump, the most recent former president, has remained in the public eye since leaving office in January 2021. He has been active on social media, launching a new website, and making appearances at rallies and events.
The National Archives may ask living former presidents and vice presidents to search personal records to make sure there are no classified materials that have been inadvertently released to the public. This was the case in 2016, when the Archives asked former presidents and vice presidents to search their records for any information related to Hillary Clinton's private email server.
While former presidents are no longer in the White House, they still have a significant impact on American politics and policy. For example, former President Bill Clinton has continued to be an influential voice on issues such as health care and climate change.
In recent years, former presidents have come together to support each other and to honor important events. For example, in 2017, former presidents Barack Obama, George W. Bush, Bill Clinton, George H.W. Bush, and Jimmy Carter all attended a hurricane relief concert in Texas. They also reunited to honor the 50th anniversary of the assassination of John F. Kennedy.
Real estate is another area where former presidents have made their mark. President Joe Biden owns a home in Delaware and a beach house in Delaware worth a combined $4 million. Ex-presidents Donald Trump, Barack Obama, George W. Bush, and Bill Clinton all own multiple properties across the United States.
Finally, as the world mourns the loss of Queen Elizabeth II, former President Bill Clinton has spoken out about his admiration for the British monarch. "In sunshine or storm, she was a source of stability, serenity, and strength," he said. While President Biden attends the Queen's state funeral, former presidents Trump, Obama, Bush, Clinton, and Carter have been invited to a reception at the U.S. ambassador's residence in London.
In conclusion, the living former U.S. presidents continue to make their mark on the world, whether through philanthropic work, public speaking, or simply by lending their voices to important causes. As we reflect on their legacies this Presidents Day, it's clear that their impact will be felt for years to come.
