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Jimmy Carter, the Georgia governor who emerged as a "Washington outsider," had a political style that lacked a clear philosophy, often favoring a casual approach. His narrow electoral victory, securing only 49.5% of the popular vote, underscored the challenges he faced. Although he was highly intelligent, with a background as a nuclear engineer, many of his domestic policies struggled, leaving him alienated from some liberals. However, his foreign policy endeavors, including the Camp David Accords and improved relations with China, marked significant successes amidst broader challenges.
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Georgia Governor who was a “Washington Outsider” • No clear political philosophy • Advisors and staff mostly from Georgia • More casual approach
III. Seen as highly intelligent A. Nuclear engineer in the navy B. Good at problem solving C. Not good at seeing the “big picture” IV. Domestic policies mostly failed A. Tried to reform welfare, medical insurance and tax law with little success B. Fiscally conservative which alienated liberals with lack of federal spending
V. Foreign policy was more successful (in general) A. Panama 1. Anti-American riots 2. Signed treaties returning the canal zone in 1999 3. Passed the Senate by one vote
B. China 1. Formed closer ties with Deng Xiaoping 2. Restored diplomatic relations with PRC C. Middle East • Egypt and Israel were at war since 1967 • Carter invites Anwar Sadat (Egypt) and Menachem Begin (Israel) to Camp David • They sign a peace treaty to end the war
VI. Foreign Policy Problems A. Strategic Arms Limitation Treaty (SALT) 1. SALT I (Nixon) limited # of Anti-Ballistic Missiles (ABMs) “OK. What’s next?”
2. Carter works on SALT II a. some thought it gave too much power to the USSR b. Talks end when USSR invades Afghanistan, Jan 1980
d. Iran 1. US had backed the Shah and his oppressive regime 2. Ayatollah Khomeini takes over 3. US hostages held for 444 days