Robert Wadlow Biography

Robert Wadlow was an American who was the tallest person in recorded history as per the Guinness Book of Records. Also known as the Giant of Illinois and the Alton Giant, he suffered from hyperplasia that resulted in his abnormally high rate of growth that didn’t end even at the time of his death. Wadlow’s height at the time of his death was 8 ft. 11.1 in. Born to average sized parents Harold Franklin Wadlow and Addie Johnson, he had two brothers and two sisters who were of average height and weight. At one point in his life, Wadlow's size began to take its toll and he was advised to use leg braces to walk. Despite all the difficulties he faced, he never used a wheelchair and even went to college to get a proper education like his peers. He became a celebrity in 1936 after he toured with the Ringling Brothers Circus. His stardom touched new heights when he went on a tour with the International Shoe Company. Charming and smart, Wadlow enjoyed photography and collecting stamps. He died in his sleep, on July 15, 1940, at the young age of 22.