How Tall Was Napoleon? Debunking the Myth of the “Little Corporal”

The Truth About Napoleon’s Height

For centuries, Napoleon Bonaparte has been portrayed as a diminutive figure, often referred to as the “Little Corporal.” But how tall was Napoleon really? Historical evidence suggests that this common perception is more myth than reality.

Napoleon’s Actual Height

According to most reliable sources, Napoleon was approximately 5 feet 6 inches tall (168 cm). This height was actually quite average for a man of his time and place. The misconception about his stature likely arose from a combination of factors:

• Difference in measurement units: French inches were slightly longer than English inches, leading to confusion in translations.
• Propaganda: British caricaturists often depicted Napoleon as comically short to undermine his image.
• His nickname: The term “Little Corporal” was actually a term of endearment from his soldiers, referring to his camaraderie with them rather than his physical size.

Comparing Napoleon’s Height to His Contemporaries

To put Napoleon’s height into perspective, let’s compare it to average heights of the time:

• Average French male height in the late 18th century: 5 feet 4 inches (163 cm)
• Napoleon’s height: 5 feet 6 inches (168 cm)
• Average height of his Imperial Guards: 5 feet 10 inches (178 cm)

As we can see, Napoleon was actually taller than the average Frenchman of his era. The fact that he surrounded himself with tall guards may have contributed to the perception of him being short.

Historical Evidence

Several pieces of historical evidence support Napoleon’s true height:

1. His autopsy report, conducted by his personal physician, recorded his height as 5 feet 2 inches in French measure, which converts to roughly 5 feet 6 inches in English measure.
2. Clothes and personal items preserved from Napoleon’s time corroborate this height.
3. Eyewitness accounts from his contemporaries rarely mention him being noticeably short.

So, How Tall Was Napoleon?

The myth of Napoleon’s short stature is a prime example of how historical misconceptions can persist over time. In reality, Napoleon was of average height for his era, standing slightly taller than many of his countrymen. This enduring myth serves as a reminder of the importance of critically examining historical “facts” and seeking out reliable sources.

For a deeper dive into Napoleon’s life, including more facts that dispel common myths, check out our list of the 10 best books about Napoleon. These comprehensive biographies offer detailed insights into the life and times of one of history’s most fascinating figures.