On 18 May, a plaque was presented to the world’s longest-married couple, Manoel Angelim Dino (105) and Maria de Sousa Dino (102), who have been married since 20 November 1940—a total of 84 years and 178 days.
Manoel Angelim Dino and Maria de Sousa Dino were born on 17 July 1919, and 23 April 1923, respectively, in Boa Viagem, Ceará, Brazil.
The couple first met around 1936 while working in agriculture, helping their families. Manoel had traveled to the Almeida region in the Boa Viagem district to collect a shipment of rapaduras (a traditional Brazilian candy) when he first encountered Maria. However, nothing came of their meeting at the time.
Years later, on 20 November 1940, they were married. At the time, they were 21 and 17, respectively. After their wedding, the couple worked side by side in agriculture, cultivating rolled tobacco to support their growing family. They suffered a lot in the countryside.
Over the years, they raised 13 children (nine are living), and the family grew to include 55 grandchildren, 60 great-grandchildren, and 14 great-great-grandchildren. The couple stated that the key to a long life lies in refraining from vices. According to Maria, the secret to a long and happy marriage is simple: love.
Their record was recognized by LongeviQuest in early February, and shortly afterward, by Guinness World Records as well.
For a short video report about them, please visit our YouTube channel.
On Maria’s 102nd birthday in April.
