Exploring the Fascinating Stories of the Oldest Person to Ever Live
With each passing day, the quest for immortality continues to dominate the human psyche. From ancient folklore to modern-day science, humans have sought ways to extend their lifespans, and some have even managed to live beyond the age of 100. However, there are a few exceptional individuals who have managed to live beyond the age of 110 and even 120. In this blog post, we explore the fascinating stories of the oldest person to ever live.
Who was Jeanne Calment?
Jeanne Louise Calment, born on February 21, 1875, in Arles, France, lived until August 4, 1997, when she passed away at the age of 122 years and 164 days. She was the oldest person to ever live, a title she still holds to this day. During her lifetime, she saw the world undergo some of its most significant changes, from the invention of the car to the launch of the internet.
What was Jeanne’s Secret to Longevity?
While many people believe that Jeanne’s longevity was due to a healthy lifestyle, the truth is, she was not always the epitome of health. She was a lifelong smoker, and she enjoyed eating sweets and chocolates. Her secret to long life, according to her, was staying relaxed and staying active. She claimed to enjoy cycling, swimming, and playing tennis until the age of 85.
Challenges and Controversies Surrounding Jeanne’s Longevity
There have been controversies surrounding Jeanne’s age and the authenticity of her records. Several researchers have disputed the credibility of her birth and death records. However, most of the disputes have been resolved scientifically, with many studies proving beyond doubt that Jeanne was indeed the oldest person to ever live.
Other Supercentenarians who Lived Beyond 115 Years
Apart from Jeanne Calment, there have been several other supercentenarians who have lived beyond the age of 115. They include:
- Sarah Knauss – She died in 1999 at the age of 119 years and 97 days, making her the second-oldest person on record.
- Lucy Hannah – She was an American supercentenarian who died in 1993 at the age of 117.
- Kane Tanaka – A Japanese woman, born on January 2, 1903, is the oldest living person today, having celebrated her 118th birthday recently.
Conclusion
The human quest for longevity continues to intrigue and fascinate us. However, it is essential to remember that long life does not necessarily guarantee a happy and fulfilling life. The stories of supercentenarians like Jeanne Calment teach us that staying relaxed, staying active, and enjoying life to the fullest is the secret to a long and fulfilling life.
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