Who Lived 100 Years?
Many people throughout history have lived to be 100 years old or more. A centenarian is defined as a person who has reached the age of 100 years. While exact numbers are difficult to track throughout history, records and anecdotal evidence reveal numerous instances.
- Julius Valens: A Roman British legionary veteran whose tombstone inscription, "VIXIT ANNIS C," indicates he lived 100 years.
- Albert Azzo II: The Margrave of Milan (died 1097), reported by Bernold of Constance to have lived past 100 years.
These are just two examples; many others likely reached the age of 100, though documentation was less common in earlier eras. Modern records are more comprehensive, allowing for the tracking of centenarians with greater accuracy.
Modern Centenarians
Today, we see a growing number of centenarians, particularly in certain regions of the world. Japan, for example, boasts the highest rate of centenarians globally. Various studies and documentaries, like Live to 100: Secrets of the Blue Zones, explore the lifestyles and factors contributing to longevity in these populations. These studies often highlight factors such as diet, lifestyle, and social connections as key contributors to living a long and healthy life. One example of a modern centenarian is Harry Stewart Jr., an American military pilot and Tuskegee airman, who as of a recent report had lived to be 100 years old.
Understanding Centenarian Statistics
The increasing number of centenarians worldwide reflects improvements in healthcare, sanitation, and nutrition. However, reaching 100 years old is still a significant achievement, representing only a small percentage of the global population. Websites and articles such as the Wikipedia page on centenarians and articles from sources like the Washington Post provide further information on the topic. The longevity of centenarians is a fascinating subject for continued study and exploration.
