Top 10 oldest people in the world: From Jeanne Calment to Kane Tanaka, the longest-living humans in history

Interestingly, almost all of the record-holders have been women—a fact that still puzzles scientists studying aging. But beyond the statistics, what makes their stories so fascinating is how much history they lived through. Some of them were born in the 1800s and went on to see airplanes take flight, astronauts walk on the Moon, and smartphones become part of everyday life. Their lives aren’t just long, they’re windows into centuries of human progress.

Take Jeanne Calment of France, for instance. She holds the title of the oldest verified person ever, living an astonishing 122 years and 164 days. Born in Arles in 1875, she saw everything from the first automobiles to the early days of the internet. She credited her long life to good genes, lots of olive oil and chocolate, a little daily wine, and staying active.

Second on the list is Japan’s Kane Tanaka, who lived more than 119 years. She was born in 1903, the same year George Orwell came into the world, at a time when Japan was rising as a major global force. She married over 100 years ago, had four children, and spent her later years in a nursing home where she enjoyed simple pleasures like board games and, of course, chocolate.

America’s longest-living citizen, Sarah Knauss, reached 119 years and 97 days. Born in Pennsylvania, she was famous for her calm, cheerful outlook. She lived simply—home-cooked meals, little stress, and plenty of social connection. Her story is often cited as proof that peace of mind and emotional balance can add years to life.

And while women dominate longevity records, the oldest man ever recorded was also remarkable. Jiroemon Kimura of Japan was born in 1897 and lived to 116 years and 54 days. At the time of his death in 2013, he wasn’t just the oldest man alive—he was the oldest living person in the world. His life stretched from the late 19th century right into the modern digital age.

In the following list, we’ll explore the Top 10 longest-living people in recorded history—individuals who defied the odds and left behind stories that continue to inspire us.

Top 10 oldest people in the world