Imagine towering over the crowd, reaching heights that most people can only dream of. For some, this is a reality. Throughout history, there have been individuals who were born with extraordinary growth, making them stand head and shoulders above the rest. While many of these real-life giants have passed into history, there are still some remarkable people walking among us today who continue to defy the boundaries of human height. From athletes to everyday people, these giants have stories that range from awe-inspiring to heartwarming. Some of these individuals have gained fame for their height, while others lead more private lives, but all of them share a unique experience of seeing the world from a very different perspective.
Bernard Coyne
Bernard A. Coyne, born on July 27, 1897, in Anthon, Iowa, was one of the tallest individuals in recorded history. Standing at 8 feet 2 inches (248.9 cm) and weighing approximately 300 pounds (136 kg) at the time of his death in 1921, he was known as the “Giant of the World.” Despite his extraordinary size, Bernard’s parents were of average height—his mother was 5 feet 2 inches (157 cm) and his father 5 feet 8 inches (173 cm). His remarkable growth was attributed to a condition known as eunuchoidal infantile gigantism, leading to continuous growth throughout his life.
Sultan Kösen
Sultan Kösen, born on December 10, 1982, in Mardin, Turkey, holds the Guinness World Record for the tallest living man, measuring 251 cm (8 ft 2.82 in). His exceptional height is due to a tumor affecting his pituitary gland, leading to excessive growth hormone production. This condition necessitates the use of crutches for mobility. Kösen’s stature has led to challenges in finding appropriately sized clothing and footwear, with his hands measuring 28.5 cm (11.22 in) and feet 36.5 cm (14.4 in) and 35.5 cm (14 in), respectively. In 2010, he underwent successful treatment to halt further growth. Kösen married Merve Dibo in 2013, but the couple divorced in 2021. Instagram+8
Angus Mòr MacAskill
Angus Mòr MacAskill (1825–1863) was a Scottish-born Canadian giant, renowned as the tallest non-pathological giant and the strongest man ever recorded. Born on Berneray in the Outer Hebrides, Scotland, he emigrated to Nova Scotia, Canada, with his family at age six. By his early twenties, Angus had reached a height of 7 feet 9 inches (2.36 meters) and weighed approximately 425 pounds (193 kilograms). His feats of strength included lifting a 2,800-pound (1,270 kilograms) ship’s anchor to his chest and holding over 250 pounds (113 kilograms) with only three fingers. Queen Victoria invited him to Windsor Castle, where she proclaimed him “the tallest, stoutest, and strongest man to ever enter the palace.” Angus passed away at age 38 from brain fever and is buried in Englishtown, Nova Scotia.