Did you know that the U.S. has a record number of living ex-presidents? The political landscape may be ever-changing, but the wisdom of those who once led the nation remains a constant. Let’s find the answer to a question that many of you have been asking: How many former U.S. Presidents are still alive? Let’s get right into it.
As the 2024 U.S. presidential election approaches, the spotlight is not just on the candidates vying for the Oval Office but also on those who have previously occupied it. The United States currently has a record number of living former presidents, each with their unique contributions and legacies.
Total Number of Living Former Presidents: 5
Oldest Living Former President: Jimmy Carter, 99 years old
Youngest Living Former President: Barack Obama, 62 years old
The Living Legends: Former Presidents Are Still Alive
Jimmy Carter
Age: 99
Notable Facts: “He is both the longest-lived president and the one with the longest post-presidency,” as per our previous conversation. Carter is also the fourth-oldest living person to have served as a nation’s leader.
- Peanut Farmer: Before his political career, Carter was a successful peanut farmer.
- Nobel Peace Prize: Carter won the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002 for his work in international diplomacy.
“I can say that my commitment to human rights began long before I was elected President of the United States.”
Bill Clinton
Age: 77
Notable Facts: Clinton has faced several health scares but remains active through his Clinton Foundation.
- Saxophonist: Clinton is an accomplished saxophonist and even performed on “The Arsenio Hall Show.“
- Rhodes Scholar: He was a Rhodes Scholar at Oxford University.
“The work of the Clinton Foundation is the work of my life.”
George W. Bush
Age: 77
Notable Facts: Bush has taken up painting and is vocal about current issues.
- Artistic Pursuits: Apart from painting, Bush is also an author and has written a memoir and a book honoring U.S. veterans.
- First Father-Son Presidents: He and his father, George H.W. Bush, are one of only two father-son pairs to serve as U.S. Presidents.
“I’ve taken up painting.”
Barack Obama
Age: 62
Notable Facts: Obama has a deal with Netflix to produce documentaries and features.
- Grammy Winner: Obama has won two Grammy Awards for the audio versions of his books.
- First African-American President: He broke racial barriers by becoming the first African-American President of the U.S.
“I’ve always believed that our future is not written for us, but by us.”
Donald Trump
Age: 77
Notable Facts: Despite facing legal challenges related to his possession of classified documents and his alleged involvement in the January 6, 2021, riots at the U.S. Capitol, Donald Trump remains a significant figure in American politics. Notably, he is leading in national polls as we approach the 2024 elections, demonstrating his enduring appeal and influence.
- Reality TV Star: Before his presidency, Trump was known for his reality TV show “The Apprentice.”
- Business Mogul: Trump has been involved in various business ventures, including real estate, branding, and television.
“We will make America great again.”
How many US Presidents have been alive at one time?
The number of U.S. Presidents who have been alive at the same time varies depending on the historical period. However, one notable period is from January 20, 1993, to April 22, 1994, when there were six living U.S. Presidents:
- Richard Nixon (1969–1974)
- Gerald Ford (1974–1977)
- Jimmy Carter (1977–1981)
- Ronald Reagan (1981–1989)
- George H. W. Bush (1989–1993)
- Bill Clinton (1993–2001)
This period ended with the death of Richard Nixon on April 22, 1994.
FAQ’s Around Living Ex-Presidents
Do any living former Presidents have military experience?
Yes, Jimmy Carter served in the U.S. Navy.
Have any living former Presidents been impeached?
Yes, both Bill Clinton and Donald Trump have been impeached, with Trump being impeached twice.
Do any living former Presidents have law degrees?
Yes, Bill Clinton and Barack Obama both have law degrees.
Which living former President has visited the most countries?
Barack Obama visited 58 countries during his presidency, the most among living former Presidents.
Which living former President has authored the most books?
Jimmy Carter has authored over 30 books on various subjects, from history to poetry.
As we gear up for the 2024 elections, the insights and experiences of these living former presidents serve as a valuable resource. Their collective wisdom offers a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for the United States.