Origins & Early Life

Josephine Myrtle Corbin (May 12, 1868 – May 6, 1928) was an American sideshow performer born as a dipygus. This referred to the fact that she had two separate pelvises side by side from the waist down, as a result of her body axis splitting as it developed. Each of her smaller inner legs was paired with one of her outer legs. She was said to be able to move her inner legs, but they were too weak for walking.

Pivotal Works & Achievements

Corbin was born in Lincoln County, Tennessee. Corbin's parents were William H. Corbin, aged 25 at the time of his daughter's birth, and Nancy Corbin (née Sullins), aged 34. Both parents were described by physicians who examined the infant shortly after her birth as being very similar in appearance, "both having auburn hair, blue eyes, and very fair complexion"; in fact, they looked so similar that the physicians felt compelled to point out that they were not "blood kin". The Corbins had four children in total, including a child from Nancy's first marriage.

Enduring Legacy & Impact

Myrtle's birth was not marked by anything "peculiar about the labour or delivery" according to her mother. Doctors who examined the child shortly after her birth noted that a breech presentation "would...

Contemporary Figures & Related Historical Timelines

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• Arnold Sommerfeld — Contemporary (Born in 1868) (1868): Pioneering theoretical physicist known for quantum and atomic physics.
• Adam West — Contemporary (Born in 1928) (1928): American actor best known for portraying Batman in the 1960s and extensive voice work.
• Agnès Varda — Contemporary (Born in 1928) (1928): Pioneering French filmmaker, artist, and documentarian celebrated for her unique vision.
• Alan J. Pakula — Contemporary (Born in 1928) (1928): American film director, writer, and producer known for political thrillers.
• Adolfo Pedernera — Shared historical date (05-12 · Died) (1995): Argentine football legend, nicknamed 'El Maestro,' pivotal in the 1940s.
• Aly Khan — Shared historical date (05-12 · Died) (1960): Diplomat, socialite, and former Ambassador of Pakistan to the UN.
• Alexander Suvorov — Shared historical date (05-06 · Died) (1800): Brilliant Russian general whose victories defined military prowess in the late 18th century.
• Alexander von Humboldt — Shared historical date (05-06 · Died) (1859): German polymath, geographer, and naturalist who pioneered biogeography and modern science.
• 1868 Historical Timeline & Archive — Explore world events and figures from 1868
• May 12 (05-12) On This Day — Historical birthdays and events on May 12
• 1928 Historical Timeline & Archive — Explore world events and figures from 1928
• May 6 (05-06) On This Day — Historical events and memorials on May 6