Researchers have delved into historical data from skeletal remains to determine how the average height of Englishmen has changed over two millennia. This fascinating study, utilizing data collected from archaeological sites across England over the past 30 years, focuses on men aged 21 to 49. By examining femur bone lengths, scientists were able to reconstruct the full height of these individuals, providing insights into the average height at different historical periods.
Alt text: Archaeological skeletal remains showing femur bone, essential for estimating historical average height in studies.
It’s well-established in biology and epidemiology that while genetics play a significant role in individual height, broader societal factors such as economic conditions, social structures, and environmental circumstances are key determinants of average height across populations. Therefore, studying historical average height offers a unique lens through which to understand the well-being and living conditions of past societies.
The research reveals a notable increase in the average height of Englishmen during the Roman occupation of Britain (200-410 AD). The average height rose from approximately 167 cm to 170 cm, equivalent to an increase to about 5 feet 7 inches. This growth in stature is attributed to the Romans’ advancements in public health infrastructure, specifically their sophisticated water supply and sanitation systems, coupled with a more diverse and nutritious diet available during this era.
However, following the Roman departure from Britain in 410 AD, this trend reversed. While the decline wasn’t immediate, average heights began to decrease from around 600 AD onwards. This decrease is likely linked to a decline in living standards as populations moved away from Roman-established towns and cities. This shift resulted in the abandonment of the superior Roman hygienic water sources and waste management systems. Consequently, outbreaks of plague and other pestilences became more frequent, and infectious diseases spread more easily. Archaeological evidence from this period also suggests that diets became less adequate, further contributing to the decline in average height.
Alt text: Graph illustrating the historical trend of average height in Britain from 1750 to 2000, showcasing fluctuations and overall increase.
A resurgence in average height began after the Norman Conquest in 1066. By the late early medieval period, average heights had recovered to 172 cm, increasing further to 173 cm in the 12th century. This upward trend brought average heights closer to the levels seen at the beginning of the 20th century. Researchers suggest that a period of warmer climate during this time may have played a role in promoting better general health and nutrition within the population. Historical records indicate that England experienced its warmest weather of the millennium between 901 and the 12th century. This sustained period of warmth, lasting approximately 200 years, corresponded with an increase in average height of more than 5 cm.
After 1200, however, average heights began to fall once more. Archaeological evidence points to a decrease in rural populations, degradation of farmland, and shortages of essential crop seeds during this period. Furthermore, research suggests a cooling climate, with more volatile weather patterns prevailing until the early 1300s. The Great Famine of 1315-1317 likely exacerbated this decline in average height, although data indicates that men were already becoming shorter in the decades preceding the famine.
Interestingly, the Black Death pandemic of 1348-1350 was followed by an increase in average heights. This seemingly paradoxical rise is attributed to a subsequent boost in agricultural production after the pandemic. From 1400 to the mid-17th century, average height reached a peak of 173-174 cm. The early 17th century was noted as a particularly healthy period, and the introduction of poor laws during this time may have contributed to improved health among the poorer segments of society.
Following 1650, average heights once again declined, falling to around 169 cm by the late 17th century. This downward trend continued into the early 19th century. While mortality rates had decreased and life expectancy for those born between 1650-1750 was around 35 years (compared to 40 years in the late 16th century), the nature of work had changed significantly. The rise of manual labor during and after the Industrial Revolution placed greater physical demands on workers than in previous medieval times. Increased working hours and poorer working conditions likely contributed to the decrease in average height, despite rising wages after 1650. Growing social inequalities may have also played a role in this decline.
This study’s findings are consistent with similar research conducted by Richard Steckel of Ohio State University, who developed a European health index. While both European and English data align in their historical trends, the Oxford-led study suggests that England may have been somewhat insulated from the most severe health impacts of the Little Ice Age, a cooling period following the medieval warm period that had a more pronounced negative effect on health across continental Europe.
Dr Gregori Galofré-Vilà, the lead author of the study from the Department of Sociology at the University of Oxford, emphasizes the significance of these findings. He states, “We believe our results shed new light on the development of health in England over the very long run.” Since the early 19th century, the average height for Englishmen has increased dramatically, reaching 175 cm by 1950 and 177cm by 1970, placing them among the tallest populations globally. The study highlights that average heights in England during the medieval era and between 1400 and 1700 were comparable to those of the 20th century. Dr. Galofré-Vilà concludes, “If mean heights are a good measure of well-being, it seems we are now in previously uncharted territory. Within the last 100 years, the average heights of Englishmen have risen more than at any time in recorded history.”
This research underscores the profound impact of environmental, social, and economic factors on human health and development, as reflected in the long-term trends of average height.
