The oldest Italian person ever, holding the record for the longest confirmed human lifespan in Italy, and one of the last living people born in the 1800s.
Emma Morano was a remarkable woman who lived an astonishing 117 years and 137 days, earning her the title of the world's oldest living person from May 13, 2016, until her passing on April 15, 2017. She was the last living person verified to have been born in the 1800s, a feat that cemented her place in history.
Born on November 29, 1899, in Civiasco, Vercelli, Piedmont, Italy, Emma was the eldest of eight children to Giovanni Morano and Matilde Bresciani. Her family was blessed with longevity, with her mother, aunt, and some siblings living into their 90s, and one sister, Angela Morano, passing away at the age of 102.
As a child, Emma moved from the Sesia Valley to Ossola due to her father's job, but the unhealthy climate forced the family to relocate to Verbania, on Lake Maggiore, where she spent the rest of her life.
In October 1926, Emma married Giovanni Martinuzzi, and their only child was born in 1937. Tragically, their son passed away just six months later. The marriage was not a happy one, and in 1938, Emma took the bold step of separating from her husband and driving him out of the house.
Until 1954, Emma worked at Maioni Industry, a jute factory in her town. She then worked in the kitchen of Collegio Santa Maria, a Marianist boarding school in Verbania, until her retirement at the age of 75. Her dedication to her work and community was inspiring, and in December 2011, she was awarded the honor of Knight of the Order of Merit of the Italian Republic by President Giorgio Napolitano.
When asked about the secret to her remarkable longevity, Emma attributed it to her positive outlook on life, saying, "I think positively about the future." She also credited her daily diet of three eggs, occasional glasses of homemade grappa, and the occasional indulgence in chocolate.
Emma Morano's extraordinary life is a testament to the human spirit's capacity for resilience, adaptability, and positivity. Her remarkable story serves as an inspiration to people around the world, reminding us that even in the face of adversity, we have the power to choose how we live our lives and make the most of every moment.
Born in 1875
The oldest verified person ever, holding the record for the longest confirmed human lifespan, living to the age of 122 years and 164 days. She outlived both her daughter and grandson, and met Vincent van Gogh in 1888.
Born in 1898
A Japanese super-centenarian who holds the record for being the oldest person in the world, living to the age of 117 years and 29 days. She is a remarkable example of longevity and a testament to the human body's potential.
Born in 1897
The oldest verified man ever, holding the Guinness World Record for the longest confirmed human lifespan, lived to 116 years and 54 days, sharing his secrets to longevity. He is a symbol of remarkable vitality and inspiration.
Born in 1900
Oldest Jamaican ever, lived to 117 years and 226 days, holding the record for the oldest verified person from Jamaica.
Born in 1903
A Japanese supercentenarian who holds the record for being the oldest Japanese person and second oldest verified person in world history, living to the age of 119. She is a remarkable example of longevity and vitality.
