Jimmy Carter's foreign policy legacy highlights human rights and key diplomatic successes

Jimmy Carter's foreign policy emphasized human rights, marking a shift from his predecessor Richard Nixon's approach. He supported dissidents in the Soviet Union and returned the Panama Canal to Panama, despite domestic opposition. Carter's notable achievements include the Camp David Accords, which established peace between Israel and Egypt, and the formal recognition of China, laying the groundwork for future trade relations. He also began arming Afghan fighters against the Soviet invasion. However, the Iran hostage crisis overshadowed his presidency. The failed rescue operation and prolonged hostage situation contributed to his defeat in the 1980 election. Despite this, Carter's foreign policy legacy includes significant diplomatic successes and a focus on human rights.