In the 1850s the Dutch Were the Shortest People in the World

Question

In the 1850s the Dutch were the shortest people in the world. Now they are the tallest. Why?
A) genetic drift provided an infusion of 'tall genes'
B) gene flow provided an infusion of 'tall genes'
C) the standard of living increased dramatically, so that the people were, on average, much better fed
D) they discovered how to pasteurize and homogenize milk
E) a mutation in the gene for height was naturally selected for

Accepted Answer

The increase in height among the Dutch over time is attributed to an overall improvement in their standard of living, particularly with access to better nutrition. This resulted in a better overall level of health and growth, leading to increased height.