On “The Final 5 with Jim Lokay,” presidential historian Dr. Larry Cook shared candid memories of his two-decade friendship with President Jimmy Carter.

Known for his extensive knowledge of presidential legacies and memorabilia, Cook offered a unique personal perspective on the former president, who recently turned 100.

“I always say it all goes back to this: He’s a man of faith and a man of principle,” Cook said. “Everything he accomplished, during his presidency, after his presidency, even before his presidency, it all ties back to that.”

Cook’s connection with Carter began more than 20 years ago when his wife surprised him with a trip to Plains, Georgia, to celebrate his birthday.

“We were able to attend church and listen to him teach Sunday school,” Cook recalled. “We even took a photo with President and Mrs. Carter. I later wrote him a letter telling him how much we loved Plains, and he personally wrote back, inviting us back.”

This initial meeting grew into a significant friendship, and the Carters eventually enlisted Cook’s help in selling presidential memorabilia to support historic renovations in Plains.

“We called the project *Plains Helping Plains*,” Cook said, adding that it strengthened their bond.

Cook spoke warmly of Carter’s humility and recalled moments that revealed his character. “When we had lunch together, he insisted that we go first because, as he said, ‘you’re the guest.’ He truly lives his values ​​every moment of his life,” Cook said.

The historian also analyzed the lasting impact of Carter’s post-presidential legacy, including his humanitarian work.

“He didn’t let politics change him. Whether in Washington, as governor of Georgia or as a private citizen, he remained Jimmy Carter at his core,” Cook said. “The man you see working tirelessly at the Carter Center or teaching Sunday school, that’s exactly what he is on a personal level.”

Among Cook’s treasured Carter memorabilia is a leather-bound program from President Barack Obama’s 2013 inauguration, gifted by the Carters. “Later, President Obama signed it for me, making it a very prized item in my collection,” he said.

Reflecting on Carter’s legacy, Cook summed it up this way: “He set an example of what the presidency can be and what public service should be. He never wavered from his principles or his mission to help others.”

For more information about Cook’s collection, visit larrycookhistorian.com.