John William Rogan (February 16, 1865 – September 12, 1905) is one of 17 known people in medical history to reach a height of 8 feet (2.44 m) or more. Born to former slaves in Tennessee, Rogan began to experience a rapid growth spurt once he reached 13. When he was measured in 1899, Rogan was found to be 8 ft. 9 in. tall. Despite being unable to do physical labor due to his size, Rogan refused to perform in traveling side shows, although he did make a living by selling pictures of himself. Rogan died on September 12, 1905 from complications due to his height. He was buried in the family yard under solid concrete to prevent anyone from exhuming and examining his body. Rogan was not only the tallest person of African descent ever recorded, but he is also the second tallest human being ever recorded period, beaten only by Robert Wadlow (8′11).