January 9, 2025
The year of the Bikecentennial, 1976, is perhaps best known in American history for the election of President Jimmy Carter. The campaign during the year occurred against the backdrop of the celebration of 200 years since 1776, as illustrated by this photograph of candidate Carter wearing a “Bicentennial cap.”
President Jimmy Carter and First Lady Roslyn Carter were regular cyclists, both during their time at the White House and after leaving office. This photograph from Camp David illustrates the President’s commitment to this form of outdoor recreation (modern cyclists will note the absence of helmets, which was common at the time).
A more important relationship between President Carter and the Bikecentennial involves his commitment to alternative and reewable forms of energy. America in the 1970s experienced two energy crises, both associated with embargoes on oil exports from the Middle East. In addition, this decade saw increased attention to the costs of fossil fuels on the environment. President Carter was recognized for his commitment to promoting alternative energy, which included encouraging forms of transportation less dependent on fossile fuels. On this day of President Carter’s memorial service, these connections between cycling and the environment are worth remembering and recognizing.
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