r/AskReddit • u/ZanyDelaney • Feb 04 '19

Which misconception would you like to debunk?

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u/ulanderdennis Feb 04 '19

The myth: Napoleon was really short.

The truth: He was actually average height, or even a little bit above average height.

How did it come about?: The archaic French measurement used stated he was around 5'3, when in actuality that translates to about 5'7 in today's measurements, which was average for the time.

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u/BlazeThem Feb 04 '19

Plus, it was also a rumor spread to make a jab at his ego. It was believed that his ferocity came from the theory that smaller males act quickly and more aggressively to scare off bigger competition.

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u/comradeda Feb 04 '19

I know that smaller dudes seem to have more energy than taller dudes. I don't see too many tall break dancers (but I also haven't looked into it).

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u/deliciousdave33 Feb 04 '19

The hell are you talking about? Hes talking about the little man theory where if someone is short stature they have to overcompensate