Creator Systems

Robert Wadlow — Named Giants

Printed by: Guest2026-10-03 08:05https://creator.watkins.org/giant-detail/robert-wadlow
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Robert Wadlow

Open page: Robert WadlowGlossary: Robert Wadlow

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Modern record First hand

The tallest person in verified human history. His growth was caused by hyperplasia of the pituitary gland producing abnormal levels of growth hormone, and he was still growing at his death aged 22. His final height was taken by physicians from Washington University in St. Louis, making this the best-documented giant measurement ever recorded.

People of giant stature measured under modern conditions, with a named cause where one is known. This is the only class on the page where the height itself is verified.

Record

  • Also known asRobert Pershing Wadlow; the Alton Giant
  • Lineage Human (pituitary hyperplasia) · race detail
  • TraditionModern medical and registry record
  • RegionAlton, Illinois, USA
  • Era1918-1940
  • Stature as recorded8 ft 11.1 in (272 cm), measured 27 June 1940
  • Reported or examined byDr. C. M. Charles and Dr. Cyril MacBride, Washington University
  • Primary referencesWashington University School of Medicine measurement, 1940; Guinness World Records
  • Source Wikipedia: Robert Wadlow

Stature is recorded as the source states it, in that source’s own units. It is not a verified measurement unless this record sits in the Modern documented record class.

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