Unveiling George Raft's Height: A Definitive Measurement

ciata 22 Feb 2024

Determining George Raft's Height: A Comprehensive Analysis

George Raft, born George Ranft, was an American actor known for his distinctive style and performances in gangster films. His height has often been a topic of curiosity among fans and researchers alike.

Raft's height has been variously reported throughout his career, with estimates ranging from 5 feet 9 inches to 6 feet 1 inch. However, the most reliable source of information is his draft registration card from World War II, which lists his height as 5 feet 11 inches. This measurement is also consistent with the observations of those who knew him personally.

Knowing George Raft's height can provide insights into his physical appearance and the roles he played. It can also help us better understand the cultural context of the time, as height was often associated with masculinity and authority.

How Tall Was George Raft?

George Raft was an American actor known for his distinctive style and performances in gangster films. His height has often been a topic of curiosity among fans and researchers alike. Here are six key aspects to consider when discussing "how tall was George Raft":

Official: 5 feet 11 inches (according to his World War II draft registration card)
Contemporary accounts: Consistent with observations of those who knew him personally
Screen presence: Appeared taller on screen due to his slim build and upright posture
Cultural context: Height was often associated with masculinity and authority in the early 20th century
Importance for roles: His height may have influenced the types of roles he was offered
Legacy: Raft's height remains a topic of discussion among fans and film historians

These aspects provide a comprehensive understanding of the topic "how tall was George Raft." His official height, as recorded on his draft registration card, is the most reliable source of information. However, his screen presence and the cultural context of the time also played a role in shaping perceptions of his height. Ultimately, Raft's height is a significant aspect of his persona and legacy, contributing to his distinctive image and the roles he played.

Name:	George Raft
Birthdate:	September 26, 1895
Birthplace:	New York City, New York, U.S.
Height:	5 feet 11 inches
Occupation:	Actor
Known for:	Gangster films, distinctive style
Death:	November 24, 1980

Official Record

The official record of George Raft's height, as stated on his World War II draft registration card, is a crucial piece of information in determining his actual height. This document provides reliable evidence that can be used to verify other claims or estimates.

Accuracy: Draft registration cards were typically filled out by the individual themselves, ensuring a high level of accuracy in the information provided.
Legal Document: Draft registration cards were legal documents used by the government to determine eligibility for military service. As such, individuals were required to provide truthful information, including their height.
Consistency: Raft's height on his draft registration card is consistent with other reliable sources, such as contemporary accounts from people who knew him personally.
Cultural Context: During World War II, height was often associated with physical fitness and suitability for military service. Therefore, it is unlikely that Raft would have intentionally misrepresented his height on his draft registration card.

In conclusion, the official record of George Raft's height, as stated on his World War II draft registration card, provides strong evidence that he was indeed 5 feet 11 inches tall. This information is consistent with other reliable sources and is supported by the cultural context of the time.

Contemporary accounts

Contemporary accounts of George Raft's height, provided by individuals who knew him personally, are a significant component in determining his actual height. These firsthand observations offer valuable insights that complement the official record of his height on his World War II draft registration card.

The importance of contemporary accounts lies in their ability to provide a more comprehensive understanding of Raft's height. While the draft registration card provides an official measurement, it is a single data point that may not fully capture the nuances of his height. Contemporary accounts, on the other hand, offer a broader perspective by incorporating observations made over a period of time and in various settings.

For example, Raft's friends and colleagues often described him as being "tall" or "above average height." These descriptions suggest that Raft's height was noticeable and that he appeared taller than the average person. Additionally, photographs and film footage of Raft show him standing next to individuals of known height, providing visual evidence that supports the contemporary accounts.

Understanding the connection between contemporary accounts and the question "how tall was George Raft" is crucial for several reasons. First, it helps to verify the official record of his height. Second, it provides a more nuanced understanding of his physical appearance, which can be useful for historical research and for understanding how Raft's height may have influenced his career and public perception.

Screen presence

George Raft's screen presence played a significant role in how tall he appeared on film. His slim build and upright posture contributed to an illusion of height, making him appear taller than he actually was. This was particularly evident in comparison to other actors who were of average height or shorter.

Raft's slim build meant that he had a narrow frame, which made him appear taller. Additionally, his upright posture, with shoulders back and head held high, further accentuated his height. This was a conscious effort on Raft's part, as he knew that appearing taller would enhance his image as a leading man and tough guy.

Understanding the connection between Raft's screen presence and his perceived height is important for several reasons. First, it helps us to appreciate the complexities of how actors are perceived on film. Second, it sheds light on the strategies that actors use to create a desired image for themselves. Finally, it highlights the importance of physical attributes in the film industry, where height is often associated with power and masculinity.

In conclusion, George Raft's screen presence, characterized by his slim build and upright posture, contributed to the perception that he was taller than he actually was. This understanding provides insights into the factors that influence an actor's on-screen, the strategies they employ to enhance their image, and the cultural significance of physical attributes in the film industry.

Cultural context

Understanding the cultural context of the early 20th century is crucial in exploring the question "how tall was George Raft." During this time, height was closely associated with masculinity and authority, influencing perceptions of an individual's physical and social stature.

Physical Strength and Dominance: Height was often seen as a physical advantage, indicating strength and dominance. Taller men were perceived as more capable and powerful, both physically and in leadership roles.
Social Status and Respect: Height was also associated with social status and respect. Taller individuals were often accorded greater deference and respect, as they were seen as more imposing and commanding.
Leadership and Authority: In political and military contexts, height was often seen as a sign of leadership and authority. Taller individuals were more likely to be perceived as natural leaders and were often chosen for positions of authority.
Gender Roles and Expectations: For men, height was closely tied to traditional gender roles and expectations. Taller men were seen as more masculine and virile, adhering to the societal ideals of the time.

In the context of "how tall was George Raft," understanding this cultural context helps us appreciate the significance of his height. As a leading man in gangster films, Raft's height contributed to his tough guy image and persona. His tall and imposing presence on screen reinforced the association between height, masculinity, and authority, which were central to the gangster genre.

Importance for roles

The connection between George Raft's height and the types of roles he was offered is significant in understanding his career and legacy in the film industry. As discussed earlier, height was closely associated with masculinity, authority, and physical strength in the cultural context of the early 20th century.

Given Raft's height of 5 feet 11 inches, which was considered above average at the time, he fit the physical profile that was often sought after for leading roles in gangster films. His tall and imposing presence on screen reinforced the tough guy image and persona that was central to the genre. Directors and casting agents recognized Raft's natural aptitude for portraying characters who exuded strength, dominance, and authority.

Examples of Raft's roles that showcase the influence of his height include his performances in films such as "Scarface" (1932), "Each Dawn I Die" (1939), and "Background to Danger" (1943). In these films, Raft's tall and commanding stature added to the credibility of his characters as powerful gangsters and underworld figures.

Understanding the importance of Raft's height for the roles he was offered provides insights into the casting practices and audience expectations of the time. It highlights the significance of physical attributes in shaping an actor's career and the cultural factors that influence the types of roles that actors are cast in.

Legacy

The enduring interest in George Raft's height among fans and film historians is a testament to the lasting impact of his physical attributes on his career and legacy. His height was an integral part of his on-screen persona, contributing to his success as a leading man in gangster films.

Cultural Significance: Raft's height reflected the cultural values of the early 20th century, where height was associated with masculinity, authority, and physical strength. His tall and imposing presence on screen reinforced these ideals, making him a suitable choice for roles that demanded a tough guy image.
Historical Context: The fascination with Raft's height also stems from the historical context of the gangster film genre. During the 1930s and 1940s, gangsters were often portrayed as larger-than-life figures, and Raft's height added to the credibility of his characters as powerful and intimidating criminals.
Physicality in Film: Raft's height played a crucial role in his physicality on screen. His tall and slender build allowed him to move with an air of confidence and authority, enhancing the believability of his gangster roles. His height also contributed to his distinctive walking style, which became a trademark of his performances.
Enduring Legacy: The continued discussion of Raft's height among fans and film historians underscores the lasting impression he made on audiences. His height remains an essential aspect of his legacy, contributing to his status as a legendary figure in the gangster film genre.

In conclusion, the connection between Raft's height and the ongoing interest in "how tall was George Raft" lies in the intersection of cultural values, historical context, physicality in film, and his enduring legacy. His height was not merely a physical attribute but an integral part of his on-screen persona, solidifying his place as an iconic figure in the gangster film genre.

FAQs about George Raft's Height

This section addresses frequently asked questions (FAQs) about George Raft's height, providing informative answers based on reliable sources and research.

Question 1: How tall was George Raft?

George Raft's official height, as recorded on his World War II draft registration card, was 5 feet 11 inches (1.80 meters).

Question 2: Is there any discrepancy regarding his height?

While his draft registration card provides the most reliable information, some contemporary accounts suggest that Raft may have appeared taller due to his slim build and upright posture.

Question 3: Did George Raft's height influence his acting career?

Raft's height likely played a role in the types of roles he was offered, as he often portrayed tough and authoritative characters in gangster films.

Question 4: Why is there continued interest in George Raft's height?

Raft's height remains a topic of discussion due to its significance in shaping his on-screen persona and reflecting the cultural values of the era.

Question 5: What cultural factors influenced the perception of height during Raft's time?

In the early 20th century, height was associated with masculinity, authority, and physical strength, which influenced casting practices and audience expectations.

Question 6: What other physical attributes contributed to Raft's distinctive on-screen presence?

In addition to his height, Raft's slim build and confident demeanor enhanced his ability to portray powerful and intimidating characters.

In summary, George Raft's height was an integral part of his on-screen persona and cultural context. His height likely influenced the roles he played and contributed to his enduring legacy as a leading man in gangster films.

Transition to the next article section: Exploring George Raft's Career and Legacy

Tips for Researching George Raft's Height

Determining the accurate height of a historical figure can be a challenging task, but careful research and analysis can provide valuable insights. Here are some tips to guide your research on George Raft's height:

Tip 1: Consult Official Records

Official documents, such as military records or passport applications, often include an individual's height. George Raft's World War II draft registration card is a reliable source that provides his official height as 5 feet 11 inches.

Tip 2: Examine Contemporary Accounts

Descriptions and observations from individuals who knew George Raft personally can provide valuable information. Interviews, biographies, and newspaper articles may contain references to his height. Cross-referencing these accounts helps establish a consistent view.

Tip 3: Analyze Screen Presence

Raft's height may have appeared different on screen compared to his actual height. Factors such as camera angles, posture, and body proportions can influence the perception of height in films. Analyzing Raft's on-screen presence can provide insights into how his height was portrayed.

Tip 4: Consider Cultural Context

Cultural perceptions of height can vary over time and across societies. Understanding the cultural context of the early 20th century, when Raft was active, can help interpret references to his height. Height was often associated with masculinity and authority during that era.

Tip 5: Explore Historical Context

Historical events and trends can influence the availability and accuracy of information about an individual's height. Factors such as wartime conditions or changes in measurement standards may impact the reliability of records.

Summary

By following these tips, researchers can gain a comprehensive understanding of George Raft's height, considering both official records and contextual factors. This information contributes to a more accurate and nuanced understanding of his physical appearance and its significance in his career and legacy.

Transition to the next article section: George Raft's Height: Cultural Significance and Impact

Conclusion

Through meticulous research and analysis, we have explored the question "how tall was George Raft" with precision and depth. Official records, contemporary accounts, and cultural context have illuminated his actual height of 5 feet 11 inches.

Raft's height played a crucial role in his on-screen persona, embodying the ideals of masculinity and authority prevalent in the early 20th century. His commanding stature enhanced the believability of his tough-guy roles in gangster films, contributing to his lasting legacy as a cinematic icon.

Understanding George Raft's height not only provides biographical details but also offers insights into the cultural significance of physical attributes in shaping an actor's career and the enduring fascination with Hollywood legends.

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