The last of the OLD WORLD GIANTS. 2
Robert Wadlow (1918–1940), famously known as the "Alton Giant" or the "Gentle Giant," is the tallest person in recorded history for whom there is irrefutable evidence. At the time of his final measurement in June 1940, he reached a staggering height of 8 ft 11.1 in (2.72 m).
Life and Record-Breaking Growth
Wadlow was born in Alton, Illinois, at a typical weight of 8.5 lbs, but began growing at an extraordinary rate due to hyperplasia of the pituitary gland. This condition caused an overproduction of human growth hormone, and he was still growing at the time of his death.
• Childhood Milestones: By age 5, he stood 5 ft 4 in (1.63 m) tall. By age 8, he was 6 ft (1.83 m) tall and could carry his father up the stairs of their home.
• Education and Ambition: Despite the physical challenges, he graduated from Alton High School in 1936 at 8 ft 4 in and enrolled in Shurtleff College to study law.
• Public Life: He gained celebrity status touring with the Ringling Brothers Circus and later became a goodwill ambassador for the International Shoe Company. He was known for his dignified, gentle demeanor and refused to be treated as a "freak show" attraction.
Physical Dimensions
His massive frame necessitated custom-made clothing and equipment.
• Hands & Feet: He holds the records for the largest hands ever (12.75 in from wrist to middle finger) and the largest feet ever, wearing a US size 37AA shoe.
• Weight: At his peak, he weighed approximately 491 lb (223 kg).
• Diet: To sustain his body, he consumed roughly 8,000 calories per day.
Death and Legacy
Wadlow died at age 22 in Manistee, Michigan, due to a septic infection caused by a faulty leg brace that rubbed a blister on his ankle. Because of his size, he had to be treated in a hotel room as no hospital bed could accommodate him.
His funeral was attended by over 40,000 people. To ensure his body was never disturbed, his family buried him in a 1,000-lb (450 kg) steel-reinforced casket inside a concrete vault. Today, his legacy is commemorated by a life-size bronze statue in his hometown of Alton, Illinois.
