Uncovering the Life Story of the Last Person Born in the 1800s

The Context

The 19th century saw many monumental events that shaped the world as we know it today. It was a time of great progress, social changes, and technological advancements. The first airplane was flown, the telephone was invented, and electricity became available for the masses. It was also a century of longevity, where many people lived well into their 90s. However, only a few individuals had the privilege of being born in the last year of the century. One of them was Italy’s Emma Morano, the last person born in the 1800s.

Early Life and Struggles

Emma Morano was born on November 29th, 1899, in Civiasco, a small town in northern Italy. She was the oldest of eight siblings and grew up in poverty. At just 14, she was sent away to get married to a man almost twice her age. The marriage was abusive, and Emma was forced to leave her husband after he became violent. She later had a child who died at just six months.

Becoming the Oldest Person Alive

In 2016, Emma Morano became the oldest person alive. She attributed her longevity to genetics and her diet, which consisted mostly of eggs, raw meat, and a glass of homemade brandy. Emma drank three raw eggs a day, a habit she picked up during World War I when there was a shortage of food. She also credited her long life to her independence, saying: “I didn’t want to be dominated by anyone,” a trait that she carried throughout her life.

The Impact and Legacy of Emma Morano

Emma Morano passed away on April 15th, 2017, at the age of 117. She was the last person alive to have been born in the 1800s. Her life was an inspiration to many, and her longevity is still a topic of research and study. Humans have always been fascinated with living longer lives, and Emma’s story reminds us that it’s possible with a combination of genetics, lifestyle, and attitude.

The Takeaway

Emma Morano’s life is a reminder that longevity is not a given, but something we can strive for. While genetics play a part, lifestyle, diet, and attitude can also contribute to living a longer, healthier life. Her story also reaffirms the importance of independence, especially for women, who have struggled for years for their rights and autonomy. Emma Morano may have lived for over a century, but her impact will be felt for generations to come.