Robert Wadlow
Robert Pershing Wadlow was an American man recognized as the tallest person in recorded history for whom there is irrefutable evidence.
Robert Pershing Wadlow was an American man recognized as the tallest person in recorded history with irrefutable evidence, reaching a height of 2.72 m (8 ft 11.1 in). He is also known as the Alton Giant and the Giant of Illinois.
What it is
Robert Wadlow holds the Guinness World Records title for the tallest man ever measured. His final recorded height was 2.72 m (8 ft 11.1 in) on June 27, 1940. He surpassed John Rogan as the tallest verified human in history.
Why it matters
Wadlow’s case is a key reference point for understanding human height extremes and medical gigantism. His record remains unchallenged, and he is often cited in discussions of growth disorders and historical record-keeping.
Key details
Born in Alton, Illinois, on February 22, 1918, Wadlow’s extraordinary growth was caused by hypertrophy of the pituitary gland, leading to abnormally high growth hormone levels. He died at age 22 on July 15, 1940, weighing 199 kg (439 lb).
In short
- Robert Wadlow is the tallest verified human in recorded history at 2.72 m (8 ft 11.1 in).
- His growth was due to pituitary gland hypertrophy causing gigantism.
- He died at age 22 in 1940 and remains a Guinness World Records holder.
- He is nicknamed the Alton Giant and the Giant of Illinois.
Quick questions
How tall was Robert Wadlow?
Why did Robert Wadlow grow so tall?
Is Robert Wadlow still considered the tallest man ever?
Sources
- Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Robert_WadlowSupports: Birth and death dates, birthplace, height, nickname, and medical explanation for his extreme growth.
- Guinness World Records — https://www.guinnessworldrecords.com/world-records/tallest-man-everSupports: Recognition of Robert Wadlow as the tallest man ever and his measured height.
- Guinness World Records — https://www.guinnessworldrecords.com/records/hall-of-fame/robert-wadlow-tallest-man-everSupports: Historical context for the tallest-man record and Wadlow's status in Guinness World Records.
- Guinness World Records — https://www.guinnessworldrecords.com/news/2023/7/tallest-man-ever-robert-wadlows-height-in-every-year-of-his-life-755824Supports: Year-by-year growth context, peak height, and his overtaking of John Rogan.