Are There Any People Born in the 1800s Still Alive Today?

Despite the wonders of modern medicine and the advancements in healthcare, it is now confirmed that no one born in the 1800s is still alive today. The last known individual from that era, Emma Morano, passed away on April 15, 2017, in Piadera, Italy.

Emma Morano - The Last of the 1800s Cohort

Emma Morano, born on November 29, 1899, lived to a remarkable age of 117 years and 3 months. Her longevity, while impressive, is recorded as the last known person from the 1800s. The certainty of her death marks the end of an era where it was possible for humans to live into their late 110s.

Other Longevity Records and Tortoises

While Emma Morano is the last known human from the 1800s, there are other fascinating records that speak to human and animal longevity. Notably, Jonathan, a giant tortoise on the island of St. Helena, was estimated to be at least 190 years old as of 2024. Jonathan was born in the Seychelles in 1832 and moved to St. Helena in 1882. His lifespan exceeds that of most humans and highlights the extreme potential for longevity in certain species.

Current Longevity Records

The current record for the oldest person alive today is held by Jeanne Calment, a French woman who lived until 122 years of age. While this is still an extraordinary figure, it falls far short of the lifespan of some of the oldest giant tortoises like Jonathan. The average human lifespan today is around 79 years, far from the century mark that Emma Morano achieved.

Supercentenarians and the Future of Longevity

The term supercentenarian refers to individuals who live to be 110 years old or older. Despite the record-breaking lives of Emma Morano and Jeanne Calment, the number of documented supercentenarians remains relatively low. The reasons for this include genetic factors, lifestyle choices, and societal improvements in healthcare and nutrition.

Conclusion: The Rarity of Supercentenarians

While no one born in the 1800s is still alive, the concept of centenarians and supercentenarians continues to intrigue scientists and the public alike. As medical research and technological advancements continue, the potential for even greater longevity in humans may become within reach. For now, the lives of Emma Morano, Jonathan the tortoise, and others like them stand as testament to the extraordinary potential for human and animal longevity.

Keywords: aging, longevity, supercentenarians