The Tallest Ever

July 15, 1940 — Robert Wadlow, the tallest man in recorded history, died at the age of 22. Known as the “Alton Giant,” he measured 8 feet 11.1 inches tall and weighed about 439 pounds.

Born and raised in Alton, Illinois, Wadlow’s unusual size was caused by an overactive pituitary gland, which produced abnormal amounts of growth hormone. Despite his condition, he led a public life, touring with the Ringling Brothers Circus in 1936 and becoming an international celebrity.

Earlier that July, after appearing at the Manistee National Forest Festival in Michigan, a blister formed on his ankle due to the steel brace he wore to walk. The wound became infected, and septicemia set in. Within 10 days, Wadlow had passed away in his sleep.

His extraordinary stature made him a legend in his own time — and he remains the tallest person ever reliably measured.