Famous Short People

It is interesting to note that some of the greatest people on earth have not been the towering and intimidating personalities we would imagine them to be. In fact, there are many famously short people, who have had an indelible impact on the world. They exemplify the fact that height is neither a barrier nor a ladder to success, unlike what is believed by many. This article brings you details on some people with a relatively short height, who scaled great success in their life and became an inspiration for many. Read on to know about the famous short people in the world history.

 

Genghis Khan, who consolidated the largest empire in history - the Mongol Empire, was just 5 ft 1 inch tall. He was known to be one of the best commanders and ferocious warriors of the world. Under his auspices and leadership, the Mongol Empire expanded to several parts of Central Asia and China.

Yuri Gagrin, an astronaut from Russia, was the first person to travel in space and also the first one to orbit the earth. He was only 5 ft 2 inches tall. Yuri was awarded the highest civilian distinction of Soviet Federation, ‘Hero of the Soviet Union.’ His heroic feat made him immortal in the memory of the entire world.

Mahatma Gandhi, also known as the Father of Indian Nation, played a leading role in the Indian National Movement and won independence for the country. Just 5 feet 3 inches tall, Mahatma Gandhi is one of the most prominent personalities to have been seen by the world. His humble personality and strong determination even impressed the British colonizers.

 

Pablo Picasso, the most popular painter of the world, was just 5 feet 4 inches tall. This small wonder worked wonders in his paintings, which are considered to be masterpieces for all times to come. Some of the best artistic works of the 20^th century can be attributed to this Spanish painter and sculptor. His creative genius has continued to fascinate the world, even decades after his death.

 

Yaser Arafat is considered to be the greatest Palestinian leader till date. He was the chairman of Palestinian Liberation Authority (PLA). This 5 feet 2 inches tall leader was considered by many Palestinians as a freedom fighter. Conversely, he was also looked upon as a terrorist by many. In all fairness, Yaser Arafat has been an inspirational figure for the Palestinians.

 

Francois-Marie Arouet, popularly known as Voltaire, was a celebrated French writer and philosopher known for his witty and humorous works. Though he was only 5 feet 3 inches tall, Voltaire was certainly one of the tallest figures in French history. He was an enthusiastic advocate of civil liberties, with his works reflecting beautifully on his ideology.

James Madison was the first president of United States, who assumed office from March 1809 and continued till 1817. He was 5 ft 4 inches tall. Madison is considered to be one of the founding fathers of United States. He worked in tandem with George Washington to organize the Federal Government.