General Tom Thumb
American circus performer
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About General Tom Thumb
Charles Sherwood Stratton, often called General Tom Thumb or Charles Stratton was a 19th-century American showman known for his diminutive stature. He rose to prominence as a great performer under the legendary circus leader P. T. Barnum.
Background & Early Life
Bridgeport, Connecticut was his hometown. His growth ceased when he was six months old. He remained 0.6 meters tall and weighed 15 pounds in his twenties. However, he eventually grew to be 1 meter tall and weighed 32 kg. Aside from that, he was perfectly normal and healthy with a functional and proportionate body.
Career Highlights
In the 1840s, the famed entertainer Phineas T. Barnum adopted him and taught him dancing, singing and impersonation. From age seven, he performed in full-length melodramas under Barnum’s management. To bring attention to his act, Barnum changed his name to “General Tom Thumb”. He went on several then tours with Barnum across Europe, making him a worldwide star.
In 1845, he performed tremendously well in "Le Petit Poucet", a play at the “Théâtre du Vaudeville” in France. The show was hugely successful, with crowds following him everywhere he went.
However, after seeing his vibrant performances, the crowd's perceptions about freak shows were altered. This enabled him to make it the most popular type of theatrical entertainment in the USA during his era.
Death
The performer died of a sudden stroke at age 45 on July 15, 1883.
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F.A.Q. about General Tom Thumb
When is his birthday?
General Tom Thumb's birthday is on January 4, 1838.
In how many days is his birthday?
General Tom Thumb's birthday is in 59 days
How old was General Tom Thumb when he died?
He was 45 years old.
When did he die?
He died in July 15, 1883.
How old would he be today?
General Tom Thumb would be 186 years old if he was alive today.
Where was General Tom Thumb from?
He was born in Bridgeport, Connecticut, U.S..
What was General Tom Thumb's height?
He was 3′ 3″ (0.99m) tall.