15. Tallest Man Alive
Found In: USA Estimated
Price: N/A
Throughout history, a number of people have claimed the title of "tallest man ever," but Robert Wadlow of Illinois is the genuine, unchallenged winner of that distinction. When Wadlow died at the age of 22, he was nearly nine feet tall.
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Height Record Holder @imgur/Pinterest
Being the tallest man on Earth may sound like an interesting life, but for Robert Wadlow, it was anything but. Robert Wadlow, often referred to as the "Giant of Illinois," was born on February 22, 1918, in Alton, Illinois. From a young age, it was clear that Robert was different from other children. By the time he was eight years old, he had already surpassed his father in height, standing at an astonishing 6 feet 2 inches. His rapid growth was due to a condition known as hypertrophy of the pituitary gland, which results in an overproduction of growth hormone.
Hypertrophy of the pituitary gland is a rare disorder that causes excessive growth and can lead to numerous health complications. In Wadlow's case, this condition caused him to grow at an extraordinary rate throughout his life. By the time he reached adulthood, Robert Wadlow stood at an incredible 8 feet 11.1 inches, making him the tallest person ever recorded in medical history.
While his height made him a celebrity and brought him a certain level of fame, it also came with significant challenges. One of the most profound difficulties Wadlow faced was the inability to feel his feet and legs correctly. This lack of sensation was a direct result of his condition, which affected his nervous system and made it difficult for him to maintain balance and mobility. As a result, Robert required leg braces to walk, and even with these aids, his movements were often slow and cumbersome.
The leg braces themselves were a source of discomfort and pain. They were custom-made to support his massive frame, but they could not eliminate the strain his body placed on his legs and feet. Walking any significant distance was exhausting for Robert, and he often relied on assistance from others to get around. Despite these challenges, he remained determined to live as normal a life as possible.
Robert Wadlow's daily life was filled with obstacles that most people could not imagine. Simple tasks, such as finding clothes and shoes that fit, were a constant struggle. His family had to have his clothing specially made, and his shoes were custom-fitted by a local cobbler. Even everyday activities like sitting in a chair or riding in a car were difficult due to his extraordinary size. Furniture had to be reinforced or specially built to accommodate his height and weight.
Social interactions were also challenging for Wadlow. While he was known for his gentle and kind demeanor, his height often made him the center of attention, whether he wanted to be or not. People would stare, ask invasive questions, and sometimes even make rude comments. Despite this, Robert maintained a positive outlook and tried to use his fame to educate others about his condition and the challenges he faced.
Robert Wadlow's health was a constant concern. His immense size put a tremendous strain on his heart and other organs, and he was prone to infections and other medical issues. Tragically, it was an infection that ultimately led to his untimely death. In 1940, while on a professional tour, a poorly fitted leg brace caused a blister on his ankle that became infected. Despite medical treatment, the infection spread, and on July 15, 1940, Robert Wadlow passed away at the age of 22.
In his short life, Robert Wadlow left a lasting legacy. He is remembered not only for his incredible height but also for his resilience and positive spirit in the face of overwhelming challenges. His story serves as a reminder of the human capacity to endure and adapt, even under the most difficult circumstances. While being the tallest man on Earth brought him fame, it also brought a host of difficulties that he faced with grace and courage.
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