Robert Wadlow, also known as the Alton Giant and the Giant of Illinois, is renowned for being the tallest person in recorded history with irrefutable evidence. His extraordinary height was due to a hyperactive pituitary gland, leading to high levels of human growth hormone. Wadlow’s stature made him a unique and awe-inspiring figure, remembered for his gentle demeanor and incredible physical presence.
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Table of Contents
Who was Robert Wadlow?
Robert Pershing Wadlow, born on February 22, 1918, in Alton, Illinois, was the tallest person in recorded history. He was known for his significant height of 8 feet 11.1 inches (2.72 m) and weighed 439 lb (199 kg) at the time of his death at age 22.
How old was the tallest person alive when he died?
Robert Wadlow was 22 years old when he passed away on July 15, 1940.
Early life and career
Born to Harold Franklin and Addie May Wadlow, Robert was the oldest of five children. He surpassed his father’s height by age 8 and required special accommodations at school. He graduated from Alton High School in 1936 and enrolled in Shurtleff College to study law. Wadlow became a celebrity after a U.S. tour with the Ringling Brothers Circus and later worked in advertising with the International Shoe Company.
Robert Wadlow Height
Robert Wadlow’s height was 8 feet 11.1 inches (2.72 meters).
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Who is the tallest person in history?
Robert Wadlow holds the record as the tallest person in recorded history.
Who is the 2nd tallest person in the world?
The second tallest person in the world is Dharmendra Pratap Singh from Pratapgarh, Uttar Pradesh, India, standing at 8 feet 2 inches tall. He suffers from a condition called acromegaly, caused by a pituitary tumor. This disorder leads to continuous growth due to the malfunction of the pituitary gland, which doesn’t stop releasing growth hormones. As a result, Dharmendra faces various health issues such as weak eyesight, frequent headaches, diabetes, and laxity of joints. His financial constraints have made it difficult for him to receive proper treatment for his condition.
What was the cause of the death of Robert Wadlow?
Robert Wadlow passed away due to a septic blister on his right ankle caused by a poorly-fitted brace. The brace was used to support his legs, which had become increasingly weak. The infection from the blister led to his untimely death on July 15, 1940, at the age of 22. His immense height, a result of hyperplasia of his pituitary gland causing an abnormally high level of human growth hormone, contributed to various health issues, including the need for leg braces. His death was a direct result of the complications arising from his unique condition.
Could Robert Wadlow walk?
Robert Wadlow could walk, although he required leg braces and had little feeling in his legs and feet.
Who is bigger than Robert Wadlow?
No one has been recorded as being taller than Robert Wadlow. Wadlow holds the record as the tallest person in documented history, standing at 8 feet 11 inches (272 cm). Since his death in 1940, no one has surpassed his height. His extraordinary stature was due to hyperplasia of his pituitary gland, which resulted in an abnormally high level of human growth hormone. While there have been other very tall individuals throughout history, none have exceeded Wadlow’s recorded height.
How big was Robert Wadlow’s bed?
Robert Wadlow’s bed was specially made to accommodate his extraordinary height. It was approximately 10 feet 9 inches long, much larger than a standard bed. This custom size was necessary to comfortably fit Wadlow, who was 8 feet 11 inches tall. Such accommodations were essential for his daily life due to his unique physical stature.
How did Robert Wadlow ride in a car?
Robert Wadlow, the tallest man in recorded history at 8 feet 11 inches, faced significant challenges in everyday activities, including traveling by car. To accommodate his extraordinary height, a special vehicle was required. The car had to be modified, most likely by removing the front passenger seat, allowing Wadlow to sit in the back and stretch his legs into the space where the front seat would have been. This kind of customization was essential for him to travel by car, as standard vehicles were simply too small to accommodate his exceptional size.
Who is the tallest man alive today?
The tallest man alive today is Sultan Kösen from Turkey. He was officially measured at 251 cm (8 ft 2.8 in) in Ankara, Turkey, on 08 February 2011, according to the Guinness World Records.
Conclusion
Robert Wadlow’s life was extraordinary not just because of his unparalleled height, but also due to his character and the challenges he overcame. His legacy as the tallest person ever recorded continues to fascinate and inspire people around the world.
FAQs about Robert Wadlow
- What was Robert Wadlow’s height?
- 8 feet 11.1 inches (2.72 meters).
- How did Robert Wadlow’s height affect his life?
- It brought fame, required special accommodations, and posed health challenges.
- What caused Robert Wadlow’s exceptional growth?
- A hyperactive pituitary gland leading to high levels of human growth hormone.
- Did Robert Wadlow have any siblings?
- Yes, he was the oldest of five children.
- What was Robert Wadlow’s career aspiration?
- He intended to study law before his untimely death.
