Biography: Jeanne Calment

Full Name: Jeanne Louise Calment

Birth: February 21, 1875, in Arles, France

Death: August 4, 1997, in Arles, France

Early Life and Family: Jeanne Calment was born into a middle-class family in the picturesque town of Arles in the south of France. Her father, Nicolas Calment, was a shipbuilder, and her mother, Marguerite Gilles, came from a family of millers.

Marriage and Family Life: Jeanne married her cousin, Fernand Calment, in 1896. They had one child, a daughter named Yvonne, born in 1898. Sadly, Yvonne passed away from pneumonia in 1934 at the age of 36. Jeanne also outlived her husband, who died in 1942.

Longevity and Remarkable Health: Jeanne Calment's exceptional longevity became evident as she entered her 100s. She continued to live independently and led an active life well into her later years. She rode a bicycle until the age of 100 and remained mentally sharp.

Fame and Recognition: In the 1980s, Jeanne Calment's age began to attract widespread attention. She became a living legend and was celebrated not only in France but worldwide. Her remarkable health and lucidity were subjects of scientific interest.

Secrets to Longevity: When asked about the secrets to her long life, Jeanne Calment attributed her longevity to olive oil, which she used for cooking and skincare, as well as a diet rich in olive oil and port wine. She also reportedly enjoyed chocolate and cigarettes, although in moderation.

Meeting Vincent van Gogh: One of the most fascinating aspects of Jeanne Calment's life was her claim to have met the famous Dutch painter Vincent van Gogh in her family's shop when she was a young girl. Her vivid recollections of the encounter became part of her legend.

World Record and Later Life: In 1995, Jeanne Calment officially became the oldest verified person in recorded history, surpassing the previous record holder, Shigechiyo Izumi of Japan. She celebrated her 122nd birthday in February 1997.

Death and Legacy: Jeanne Calment passed away on August 4, 1997, at the age of 122 years and 164 days. Her death marked the end of an extraordinary life that spanned three centuries. Her remarkable story continues to inspire research into the science of aging and longevity.

Jeanne Calment's life serves as a testament to the potential for extreme human longevity and has left an indelible mark on the study of aging and gerontology. Her remarkable journey from a small town in France to international fame as the world's oldest person is a story of resilience, longevity, and the enduring human spirit.