Charles S. Stratton, better known as General Tom Thumb, became famous as a dwarf performer in the 19th century. Born in 1838 in Bridgeport, Connecticut, Stratton was just 25 inches tall and weighed only 15 pounds at the age of five. His small stature was due to a form of dwarfism called proportionate dwarfism, in which the body is simply smaller in scale.

Stratton's rise to fame began when he was discovered by the famous showman P.T. Barnum in 1842. Barnum saw the potential for Stratton to become a star attraction in his circus, and he quickly signed the young boy to a contract. Renamed General Tom Thumb, Stratton was billed as the "smallest person that ever walked alone." He began touring with Barnum's circus, performing for audiences all around the United States and eventually in Europe as well.

General Tom Thumb's performances were a huge success, and he quickly became one of the most famous celebrities of his time. He entertained audiences with his singing, dancing, and comedic routines, and his charm and wit endeared him to people of all ages. He even performed for Queen Victoria and other European royalty, further cementing his status as a global sensation.

In addition to his performances, General Tom Thumb's personal life also captured the public's imagination. He married another little person, Lavinia Warren, in a lavish ceremony that was attended by thousands of people. The couple became a beloved celebrity duo, and their relationship was closely followed by fans and the media.

General Tom Thumb's fame continued to grow throughout his life, and he remained a beloved figure until his death in 1883 at the age of 45. His legacy as a pioneering performer and cultural icon lives on today, and he is remembered as one of the most famous and enduring figures of the 19th century entertainment industry.

In conclusion, Charles S. Stratton became famous as General Tom Thumb, a beloved performer and cultural icon who captured the hearts of audiences around the world with his talent, charm, and larger-than-life personality.

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