Throughout history, the human quest for longevity has captivated our imaginations and sparked countless studies into the secrets of a long life. From ancient civilizations that revered their elders to modern-day research aimed at unlocking the mysteries of aging, the desire to understand what contributes to a lengthy and fulfilling life is a timeless pursuit. In a world where advancements in medicine and technology have significantly extended life expectancy, stories of those who have lived well over a century continue to inspire and intrigue us.
The phenomenon of extraordinary longevity invites us to reflect on the qualities that define a rich life. Is it genetics, lifestyle choices, or perhaps an unwavering spirit that allows some individuals to defy the odds? From witnessing monumental historical events to cultivating deep connections with family and community, the lives of the oldest people ever recorded reveal a tapestry woven with resilience, wisdom, and a unique perspective on life.
We will explore the remarkable lives of ten individuals who have reached extraordinary ages, each leaving behind a legacy that transcends time. Their stories offer valuable insights into the experiences that shape us, the relationships that nourish us, and the values that guide us as we navigate our own journeys through life. Join us as we celebrate these incredible centenarians, who serve as living testaments to the potential of the human spirit and the mysteries of aging.
10 Oldest Person to Ever Live in the History
1. Jeanne Calment (1875-1997)
Age at Death: 122 years, 164 days
Jeanne Calment, born on February 21, 1875, in Arles, France, holds the title of the oldest verified person to have ever lived. Her remarkable longevity has sparked fascination and inquiry into the secrets of her long life. Calment lived through a transformative era, witnessing significant historical events, including both World Wars, the invention of the telephone, and the rise of the internet.
Calment’s early life was marked by a vibrant and adventurous spirit. She was known for her love of sports, particularly cycling and fencing, and continued to engage in these activities well into her old age. In 1896, at the age of 21, she married a wealthy olive producer, and together they ran a thriving business. Calment often credited her long life to a healthy lifestyle, which included a diet rich in olive oil, a love for chocolate, and an active social life.
One of the most fascinating aspects of her life was her connection with notable figures of history. As a young girl, she met the famous painter Vincent van Gogh, describing him as “dirty, badly dressed, and disagreeable.” Throughout her lifetime, Calment maintained a positive outlook, embracing each day with enthusiasm and a sense of humor.
In her later years, Calment became a media sensation, frequently appearing in documentaries and interviews. She remained remarkably sharp and witty, showcasing her extraordinary mental acuity. Even at the age of 120, she delighted in recounting stories from her long life, charming audiences with her quick wit and endearing personality.
Jeanne Calment passed away on August 4, 1997, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire those fascinated by the concept of longevity. Her life serves as a powerful reminder of the resilience of the human spirit and the possibilities that exist when one embraces life fully.
2. Sarah Knauss (1880-1999)
Age at Death: 119 years, 97 days
Sarah Knauss, born on September 24, 1880, in Hollywood, Pennsylvania, USA, is celebrated as one of the oldest verified individuals in history. Her remarkable journey spanned nearly 120 years, making her the second-oldest verified person ever. Knauss’s longevity is a testament to her strong character and a life filled with love and connection.
Knauss grew up in a time of significant change in America. As a young girl, she experienced the transition from horse-drawn carriages to automobiles and witnessed both World Wars and the Great Depression. Despite the hardships of the times, Knauss maintained a positive outlook and a deep commitment to her family.
Married in 1903 to her beloved husband, Abraham, Sarah Knauss became a devoted wife and mother, raising one daughter, who later gave her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Family was the cornerstone of Knauss’s life; she often attributed her longevity to her strong family ties and the love they shared. Even in her later years, Knauss remained actively involved with her family, relishing every moment spent with her loved ones.
Knauss became a media sensation in her twilight years, drawing attention not only for her age but also for her gentle demeanor and sharp mind. She enjoyed a variety of hobbies, including knitting and watching television, and often shared her insights on life with those around her. Known for her calm and tranquil disposition, she lived in a nursing home in Allentown, Pennsylvania, where she was affectionately referred to as “Aunt Sarah.”
When Sarah Knauss celebrated her 119th birthday, she received numerous letters and cards from admirers and well-wishers around the world, recognizing her as a symbol of resilience and hope. On December 30, 1999, she passed away peacefully, leaving a legacy of love and a reminder of the beauty of family connections.
Knauss’s life teaches us the importance of cherishing our relationships and finding joy in the simple pleasures of everyday life. Her enduring spirit continues to inspire those who seek to understand the essence of longevity and the richness of human experience.
3. Lucy Hannah (1875-1993)
Age at Death: 117 years, 248 days
Lucy Hannah, born on July 16, 1875, in Alabama, USA, is recognized as one of the oldest verified people in history. Living through an era of profound social and technological changes, her remarkable life spanned nearly 118 years, making her a witness to significant events that shaped the modern world.
Hannah’s early years were marked by the challenges of growing up in the southern United States, where she experienced the lingering effects of the Civil War and the struggles of African Americans during the Reconstruction era. Despite these challenges, she maintained a strong sense of resilience and hope. As a young woman, she worked as a domestic servant, dedicating herself to her family and community.
In 1903, Hannah married a man named Sam Hannah, with whom she had eight children. She devoted herself to raising her family and became a source of strength and support for her loved ones. Throughout her life, she emphasized the importance of education and family values, instilling these principles in her children and grandchildren.
As Hannah aged, she remained actively involved in her community and church. Her faith played a significant role in her life, providing her with comfort and purpose. Known for her warm personality and nurturing spirit, she became a beloved figure among her family and friends.
Lucy Hannah gained recognition as the oldest living person in the United States at the time of her death on March 21, 1993. She was known for her sharp memory and storytelling abilities, often sharing anecdotes from her long life. Hannah enjoyed gardening, cooking, and spending time with her grandchildren, which brought her immense joy and fulfillment.
Her longevity has been attributed to her strong family bonds, positive outlook on life, and commitment to her community. Lucy Hannah’s life serves as a reminder of the significance of love, resilience, and the enduring impact of family connections. Her legacy continues to inspire those who seek to understand the foundations of a long and meaningful life.
4. Marie-Louise Meilleur (1880-1998)
Age at Death: 117 years, 230 days
Marie-Louise Meilleur, born on August 29, 1880, in Kamouraska, Quebec, Canada, holds the distinction of being one of the oldest verified people in history. Her remarkable journey through nearly 118 years is a testament to the spirit of resilience and adaptability, reflecting the evolving landscape of Canadian society over more than a century.
Meilleur’s early life was rooted in a close-knit family environment, where she learned the values of hard work and perseverance. She married a local man, and together they raised a family of nine children. Her dedication to her family was unwavering, and she nurtured her children with love and guidance, emphasizing the importance of education and strong moral values.
Throughout her life, Meilleur experienced a multitude of significant historical events, including both World Wars, the Great Depression, and the rise of modern technology. Her ability to adapt to these changes while maintaining a positive outlook was a hallmark of her character. Meilleur often spoke about the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle, which included regular physical activity and a balanced diet. She also enjoyed traditional French-Canadian dishes, which she believed contributed to her longevity.
As she aged, Meilleur became a beloved figure in her community, known for her kind spirit and infectious laughter. Her family often gathered around her to listen to her stories of the past, providing a rich tapestry of history for the younger generations. In her later years, she resided in a nursing home, where her warmth and wisdom continued to brighten the lives of those around her.
Marie-Louise Meilleur gained international recognition for her longevity, celebrating her 117th birthday in 1997 with family and friends. She was often asked about the secret to her long life, to which she would reply that laughter and love were key components. Her legacy as a devoted mother and community member lives on in the hearts of those she touched.
On April 16, 1998, Marie-Louise Meilleur passed away peacefully, leaving behind a profound impact on her family and community. Her life serves as an inspiring reminder of the enduring power of love, family bonds, and the importance of cherishing each moment.
5. Jiroemon Kimura (1897-2013)
Age at Death: 116 years, 54 days
Jiroemon Kimura, born on April 19, 1897, in Kyotango, Japan, holds the record as the oldest verified man ever recorded. His extraordinary lifespan of over 116 years not only captivated the world but also sparked curiosity about the factors contributing to his remarkable longevity.
Growing up in a rural area of Japan, Kimura lived through significant historical events, including the Meiji Restoration, both World Wars, and the rapid modernization of Japan. He was raised in a farming family, and his early life revolved around hard work and community engagement. After completing his education, Kimura worked in various roles, including as a postman and in agriculture, which kept him physically active throughout his life.
In 1940, Kimura married his wife, Yoshiko, with whom he had four children. Family was paramount to him, and he often attributed his long life to the love and support of his family, as well as a healthy lifestyle. Kimura was known for his active routine, which included gardening and engaging in community activities, and he adhered to a traditional Japanese diet rich in fish, rice, and vegetables.
Jiroemon Kimura gained international recognition when he was verified as the oldest living man in 2012, and his story was celebrated worldwide. Even in his later years, he displayed remarkable mental clarity and a vibrant personality. He enjoyed sharing stories about his life experiences and the changes he witnessed over the decades, offering valuable insights into Japanese culture and history.
Kimura celebrated his 116th birthday with family and friends, and his remarkable longevity was honored with various awards and accolades. He continued to live independently until his health began to decline, ultimately passing away on June 12, 2013. His death marked the end of an era, as he left behind a legacy of resilience and the enduring spirit of the human experience.
Jiroemon Kimura’s life serves as an inspiring example of the possibilities of aging, highlighting the importance of community, family ties, and a healthy lifestyle. His story is a testament to the human spirit’s capacity to endure and thrive, even in the face of life’s challenges.
6. Gertrude Weaver (1898-2015)
Age at Death: 116 years, 276 days
Gertrude Weaver, born on July 4, 1898, in Arkansas, USA, is celebrated as one of the oldest verified people in history. Her extraordinary lifespan of over 116 years not only reflects her resilience but also highlights the rich tapestry of experiences she accumulated throughout her remarkable life.
Growing up in the early 20th century, Weaver witnessed significant historical events, including both World Wars and the Civil Rights Movement. She experienced the challenges of life in the segregated South, yet she remained a beacon of positivity and strength. Weaver often spoke of her strong faith and the importance of family as the cornerstones of her long life.
In 1916, Gertrude married her husband, who worked as a farmer. Together, they raised a family, and Weaver dedicated herself to being a loving mother and grandmother. Known for her nurturing spirit, she often cared for her extended family, embodying the values of love and compassion. Her family was incredibly important to her, and she cherished the relationships she built over the years.
Weaver’s longevity was marked by her vibrant personality and zest for life. In her later years, she moved to a nursing home in Camden, Arkansas, where she continued to engage with others and maintain her social connections. She became a beloved figure among the residents and staff, often sharing her wisdom and life stories with those around her.
When Gertrude Weaver celebrated her 116th birthday in 2014, she became the oldest living person in the United States, drawing attention from media outlets around the world. She attributed her longevity to her faith in God, a positive attitude, and an active lifestyle. Weaver enjoyed reading, spending time with her family, and participating in community events, which kept her spirits high.
On April 6, 2015, Gertrude Weaver passed away peacefully, leaving behind a legacy of love, faith, and resilience. Her life serves as a powerful reminder of the impact of strong familial bonds and the importance of maintaining a positive outlook in the face of life’s challenges. Weaver’s story continues to inspire those who seek to understand the essence of a long and fulfilling life.
7. Violet Brown (1900-2017)
Age at Death: 117 years, 189 days
Violet Brown, born on March 10, 1900, in Trelawny, Jamaica, is celebrated as one of the oldest verified individuals in history. Her extraordinary life, spanning over 117 years, reflects the rich history and cultural heritage of Jamaica while highlighting the resilience of the human spirit.
Growing up in a vibrant community, Brown was deeply influenced by her family’s values and the traditions of her homeland. Throughout her life, she experienced significant social and political changes, including the impact of British colonial rule and the journey toward Jamaica’s independence in 1962. These events shaped her worldview and instilled in her a strong sense of pride in her Jamaican heritage.
In 1920, Violet Brown married a man named Athelston, and together they raised a family of five children. Family was at the heart of her existence, and she dedicated herself to nurturing her children and grandchildren. Known for her loving and supportive nature, Brown created a warm and welcoming home, often sharing stories of her life experiences and cultural traditions.
As Brown entered her later years, she remained actively engaged in her community, participating in church activities and local events. Her strong faith was a guiding force in her life, providing her with comfort and purpose. In her free time, she enjoyed gardening, cooking traditional Jamaican dishes, and spending time with her family, which brought her immense joy.
In 2016, Violet Brown gained international recognition when she was verified as the oldest living person in the world. She celebrated her 117th birthday with her family, reflecting on a life filled with love, laughter, and cherished memories. During interviews, she attributed her longevity to a healthy diet, strong family bonds, and an optimistic outlook on life.
Violet Brown passed away on September 15, 2017, leaving behind a legacy of resilience, love, and cultural pride. Her life serves as an inspiring reminder of the importance of family, community, and the values that shape our identities. Brown’s story continues to resonate, encouraging others to embrace their heritage and live life to the fullest.
8. Emma Morano (1899-2017)
Age at Death: 117 years, 137 days
Emma Morano, born on November 29, 1899, in Civiasco, Italy, is recognized as one of the oldest verified people in history and the last living person known to have been born in the 1800s. Her remarkable life, which lasted over 117 years, reflects the richness of Italian culture and the profound changes that occurred in the world over more than a century.
Growing up in a family of three siblings, Morano was influenced by the values of hard work and perseverance. In her early adulthood, she faced challenges that shaped her outlook on life, including the loss of her father and the difficult times of World War I. Despite these hardships, Morano maintained a resilient spirit and an unwavering commitment to living life on her terms.
In 1926, Emma married, but the marriage was not a happy one, leading her to make a bold decision: she left her husband in 1938, an unusual choice for women of her time. Embracing her independence, she never remarried and instead focused on building a life that suited her own preferences. This spirit of autonomy defined her later years, allowing her to cultivate her interests and passions.
Emma Morano moved to Verbania, Italy, where she lived in her own apartment until the age of 116. Known for her strong will and vibrant personality, she became a beloved figure in her community. She attributed her longevity to a unique diet that included raw eggs and a healthy lifestyle, emphasizing the importance of living without regrets and maintaining a positive attitude.
Morano gained international recognition when she celebrated her 117th birthday in 2017, drawing attention from media outlets around the world. As the last verified person born in the 19th century, her life became a symbol of endurance and the richness of history. She often reminisced about her experiences, sharing stories from her past that provided valuable insights into the world she had witnessed.
On April 15, 2017, Emma Morano passed away peacefully, leaving behind a legacy of strength, independence, and resilience. Her story serves as an inspiration to many, illustrating the power of self-determination and the importance of embracing life to its fullest, regardless of age.
9. Jeanne Calment (1875-1997)
Age at Death: 122 years, 164 days
Jeanne Calment, born on February 21, 1875, in Arles, France, holds the title of the oldest verified person in history, a remarkable achievement that has fascinated researchers and historians alike. Her extraordinary lifespan of 122 years and 164 days allows her to serve as a living testament to the mysteries of aging and the human experience.
Calment’s early life unfolded in a time of significant historical change. She witnessed the reign of numerous French leaders, two World Wars, and the advent of modern technology, including the automobile and the internet. Growing up in a well-off family, she had access to education and cultural experiences, which enriched her early years.
In 1896, Jeanne married a wealthy man named Georges Calment, and the couple enjoyed a comfortable life together. They had one daughter, Yvonne, who would go on to have children of her own. The Calment family lived in Arles, where they became part of the local community, enjoying the pleasures of southern France.
Calment’s longevity has often been attributed to her positive attitude and zest for life. She remained active well into her later years, enjoying cycling, walking, and engaging in social activities. Jeanne was known for her sense of humor and her love of sweets, often joking about her fondness for chocolate and port wine. Her vibrant personality and keen wit endeared her to those around her, making her a cherished member of her community.
As she entered her later years, Jeanne became a media sensation, with her remarkable age drawing attention from journalists, researchers, and curious individuals worldwide. Her interviews offered valuable insights into the past, as she shared her memories of growing up in the 19th century and living through significant events in French history.
Jeanne Calment celebrated her 122nd birthday with a grand party, receiving numerous accolades for her longevity. On August 4, 1997, she passed away peacefully in a nursing home in Arles. Her remarkable life and record-breaking age have inspired ongoing research into aging and longevity, providing a deeper understanding of the factors that contribute to a long and fulfilling life.
Jeanne Calment’s legacy continues to resonate, reminding us of the potential for resilience and joy, even in the twilight years of life. Her story serves as a source of inspiration for those seeking to embrace life with positivity and a sense of adventure, regardless of age.
10. Sarah Knauss (1880-1999)
Age at Death: 119 years, 97 days
Sarah Knauss, born on September 24, 1880, in Hollywood, Pennsylvania, is celebrated as one of the oldest verified individuals in history. Her extraordinary lifespan of 119 years and 97 days makes her a remarkable figure whose life spanned three centuries, providing a unique perspective on the changes and advancements in society over more than a century.
Growing up in a large family, Sarah was the daughter of German immigrants, which deeply influenced her values and upbringing. She lived through pivotal moments in American history, including both World Wars, the Great Depression, and the Civil Rights Movement. Despite the challenges of her time, Sarah was known for her resilience, warmth, and a strong sense of community.
In 1903, Sarah married her husband, Abraham Knauss, and together they had one daughter, Kathryn. The family remained close-knit, and Sarah dedicated herself to being a loving wife and mother. Her family was the center of her life, and she often spoke of the importance of family bonds and support in achieving a fulfilling life.
As Sarah aged, her approach to life remained remarkably positive. She maintained an active lifestyle, engaging in gardening and spending time with her family. Known for her sense of humor and friendly disposition, she became a beloved figure among her relatives and caregivers. Sarah was particularly fond of watching television and reading, often sharing her love for these activities with her family.
Sarah Knauss gained international recognition when she was verified as the oldest living person in the world in 1998. Her 119th birthday was celebrated with family gatherings and media attention, highlighting her remarkable longevity and the wisdom she had accumulated over the years. She attributed her long life to a positive attitude, strong family ties, and the simple joys of everyday life.
On December 30, 1999, Sarah Knauss passed away peacefully at her nursing home in Allentown, Pennsylvania. Her remarkable life serves as a testament to the power of love, family, and resilience. Her story continues to inspire those who seek to understand the beauty of aging and the importance of cherishing each moment.
Conclusion
The stories of the ten oldest people to ever live are not just tales of remarkable ages; they are narratives woven with the rich threads of history, culture, resilience, and the human spirit. Each individual, from Jeanne Calment to Sarah Knauss, provides a unique glimpse into the past, illustrating how different eras and experiences shape lives over generations.
Their longevity is a testament to various factors, including genetics, lifestyle choices, strong familial bonds, and positive attitudes toward life. These extraordinary individuals remind us that aging can be a journey filled with joy, love, and the pursuit of fulfillment, regardless of the number of years lived.
As we reflect on their lives, we are inspired to appreciate the moments we have, cherish our connections with family and friends, and approach life with the same optimism and strength that these remarkable individuals embodied. Their legacies encourage us to embrace our own journeys and seek meaningful experiences that enrich our lives, regardless of age.
