In this #TBT we share the fascinating story of Dr. James Barry, who enrolled in medical school in Scotland in 1809 and had a long and respected career thereafter as a British army surgeon.
James Barry was born Margaret Ann Bulky in late 1700s Ireland at a time when women were denied formal education and prohibited from practicing medicine. As a teen, Margaret moved to London to live with an uncle, James Barry. When their uncle died a few years later, Margaret eventually assumed his name and identity. And then—by wearing men’s clothing and lying about their age—James applied to medical school and was accepted.
Throughout their career, Dr. Barry was known for their surgical skills, and their public health and social reform efforts. Dr. Barry also kept their previous identity a secret for the rest of their life, even giving specific burial instructions to protect their privacy. (Those instructions were not followed, which is why we now know this story).
Learn more about Dr. James Barry: https://www.history.com/news/the-extraordinary-secret-life-of-dr-james-barry------------------------------
Stephanie Weiner
Director, Digital Strategy & Engagement
Association of American Medical Colleges
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