What Was the Life Expectancy of Ancient Greeks?

The life expectancy of ancient Greeks has been a subject of controversy among historians. But what was the actual lifespan of a typical adult?

The misleading nature of life expectancy statistics

It is a common modern belief that in antiquity, people lived very short lives, often dying in their thirties or even earlier. This perception stems from the calculation of life expectancy in ancient times, which has been estimated by the American Journal of Physical Anthropology at around 30 years. However, such figures are largely influenced by the high rates of infant mortality. As such, they do not accurately reflect the realities of life for those who survived childhood. A closer examination of historical evidence and classical literature reveals a more nuanced picture of longevity in the ancient world.

The estimation of life expectancy in antiquity at 30 years is misleading. This low average is heavily skewed by the high rates of infant mortality. These were as high as 30% in some societies. To illustrate this point, consider the lifespan of two individuals: one who dies at six months and another who lives to sixty-six years. The calculation would determine the average life expectancy for these two as thirty-three years, despite the older individual living to a ripe old age.

When we exclude infant mortality from the equation, it becomes clear that adults who survived childhood often lived well into their sixties or beyond. Classical literature supports this view, suggesting that the ancient Greeks viewed death before the age of sixty as premature or even tragic.

Classical evidence of longevity

Historical sources provide valuable insights into the perception of longevity in antiquity. Herodotus, often regarded as the “Father of History,” described the customs and lives of various cultures. He noted that many individuals lived to advanced ages. For example, he chronicled the long lives of the Egyptian priests, whose disciplined lifestyle and dietary practices he believed to contribute to their longevity.

Proclus, a prominent Neoplatonist philosopher of late antiquity, also wrote about the lifespans of earlier philosophers and scholars. He highlighted their intellectual contributions well into old age. These accounts reinforce the idea that reaching an advanced age was not uncommon for those who survived the perils of early childhood.

Longevity and lifestyle factors

In addition to historical accounts, the lifestyles of ancient peoples provide clues about their longevity. Diet, physical activity and social structure played significant roles. The Mediterranean diet, rich in fruits, vegetables, grains and olive oil, likely contributed to better health and longer lives for many. Physical labor and outdoor activity were integral parts of daily life, promoting fitness and resilience.

Moreover, ancient societies often valued elders for their wisdom and experience, integrating them into communal life rather than marginalizing them. This social inclusion may have contributed to mental and emotional well-being, further supporting longevity.

A revised understanding of ancient longevity

Modern demographic studies, such as those by the historian Walter Scheidel in his work on ancient population dynamics, have shown that, when infant mortality is accounted for, the typical lifespan in antiquity was slightly over 60 years—not far from contemporary global averages. This finding challenges the simplistic notion that ancient people lived drastically shorter lives than we do today.

The recognition of this fact underscores the importance of interpreting historical statistics with care. Rather than viewing the past through the lens of modern assumptions, we must consider the broader context. This includes the impact of early-life mortality and the resilience of those who survived.