The Height of Alan Turing: A Debate

The precise height of Alan Turing remains a topic of discussion in various historical and biographical sources. The exact measurement of his height has sparked debates among historians, researchers, and even casual viewers. In this article, we will delve into the different accounts of Alan Turing's height and explore the reasons behind these discrepancies.

Popular Accounts

Alan Turing, widely recognized for his contributions to computer science and cryptographic techniques, was approximately 5 feet 8 inches, or 173 cm, tall. This measurement has been mentioned in biographical records and scholarly works.

Contrary to this, a record in the Internet Movie Database (IMDb) states that Turing was 1 meter and 82 centimeters, which is just under 6 feet. However, the origin of this information remains unclear. Upon reviewing some full-body adult photographs of Turing, there is a discrepancy with this estimation. Thus, it is difficult to reconcile this figure with the more widely accepted height of 5 feet 8 inches.

Depictions in Media

The confusion partly stems from depictions of Turing in media, such as the film 'The Imitation Game.' In the film, Benedict Cumberbatch, who portrayed Turing, was shown to be slightly taller than Turing's actual height. This artistic license while portraying a historical figure often leads to inaccuracies in physical measurements.

From historical photographs and media depictions, it becomes evident that the height discrepancies may arise from varying sources and interpretations. For instance, one well-known image shows Turing standing partially on a bus. If the make of the bus can be accurately identified and correction for perspective and posture is made, it might yield a more accurate estimate of his height.

Conclusion: The Quest for Accuracy

In the pursuit of accurate historical information, it is crucial to cross-reference multiple sources and verify any discrepancies. While the widely accepted height is 5 feet 8 inches, it is always valuable to question and investigate any alternative sources.

The quest for accurate details about Alan Turing, including his height, reflects the ongoing effort to preserve the legacy of historical figures. As researchers and history enthusiasts, we must remain critical and open to new evidence and explanations.