Debunked Fact History Pop-Culture

Napoleon Bonaparte Was Exceptionally Short

Napoleon was average height for his time

Napoleon was famously short, standing only around 5 feet tall, which contributed to his aggressive military ambitions.

Napoleon was approximately 5'7' (170 cm), which was average for French men of his era. The myth arose partly from British propaganda, partly from comparison with his taller guards, and partly from different measurement standards. Historical records show his height was unremarkable for the time. The idea of him being extremely short is a persistent misconception.

Believed 1800–2000
Year Revised 1990
Why Changed Misattribution
Confidence Fully Debunked
Region Worldwide

Reception

8/10
7/10

Sources

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