World's Oldest Woman Smoked for 96 Years and Passed Away at 122

The Life and Legacy of Jeanne Calment

According to Главком: Jeanne Calment is recognized as the oldest person ever documented, and her extraordinary life continues to fascinate researchers and the public alike. She was officially named the world's oldest living person five times by Guinness World Records, underscoring the uniqueness of her story. Born on February 21, 1875, in Arles, France, she married Fernand Calment, a wealthy merchant and distant cousin, in 1896. At age 22, she gave birth to her only child, Yvonne Marie Nicolle Calment. However, tragedy struck: her daughter died young, and her grandson Frederic passed away at just 37 years old.

Jeanne Calment began smoking at age 21 and only quit at 117 due to deteriorating eyesight. She died on August 4, 1997. In 1988, at 112, she was recognized as the world's oldest living person, and in 1995, at 120, she became the oldest person ever to have lived. Her life also included a foray into acting: at 114, she appeared in the film 'Vincent and Me,' making her the world's oldest actress.

Secrets to Longevity

The secrets behind Jeanne Calment's long life remain a topic of curiosity. She believed that:

• olive oil
• red wine
• a good sense of humor

could contribute to a long life. Her active lifestyle also included fencing, hunting, mountaineering, swimming, tennis, roller skating, and cycling-all of which she continued until age 100.

Jeanne Calment shared a remarkable connection with the famed artist Vincent van Gogh. She recalled him with characteristic bluntness:

'Vincent van Gogh was as ugly as sin, had a horrible temper, and reeked of alcohol.'

These words highlight her ability to approach life and people with humor and candor.

Today, in light of her incredible achievement, attention also turns to another supercentenarian: 116-year-old Ethel Caterham from the United Kingdom, who has likewise been named the world's oldest living person by Guinness World Records. Jeanne Calment left an indelible mark on human history, and her life continues to inspire many.

Jeanne Calment's life and records offer valuable insights into the processes of aging and longevity. Her example and her habits serve as a foundation for further research in this field. In a world where living longer is an increasingly pressing topic, stories like Jeanne's encourage new generations to seek active and healthy lifestyles.

As we reflect on the remarkable life of Jeanne Calment, it's interesting to consider the experiences of other long-lived individuals. For instance, British centenarian Sonia Burns recently celebrated her 100th birthday and shared her own insights on what contributes to a lengthy life. Her perspective adds another layer to the ongoing exploration of longevity and the factors that influence it.