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James Barry, born Margaret Ann Burkley in 1789 in Ireland, is a fascinating and complex figure in medical and social history. From an early age, he showed an unusual interest in medicine and science, which led him to challenge the gender norms of his time. At the age of 15, Margaret decided she wanted to become a doctor, a dream that led her to adopt a male identity, becoming James Barry.

 

Barry moved to London, where she enrolled at the University of Edinburgh, one of the few institutions that allowed women to enroll, although in her case, she applied as a man. In 1812, she graduated as a medical doctor, becoming one of the first women to obtain a medical degree in the United Kingdom. Her change of identity not only allowed her access to medical education, but also opened the door to a career in the British Army.

 

Throughout her life, Barry served in various parts of the world, including South Africa, where she worked as a military doctor. His career was marked by an innovative and often bold approach to medicine. He was noted for his surgical skills and for promoting hygienic practices that improved the health of soldiers and local communities. Barry was known for his strong character and his advocacy of fairness in the treatment of patients, regardless of their social status.

 

Despite his professional success, Barry’s life was full of challenges and contradictions. He maintained his masculine identity in an environment that did not accept gender diversity, and his personal life was marked by secrecy. There was much speculation about his private life, and although Barry never married or had children, he established close relationships with colleagues and friends.

 

James Barry’s life came to an unexpected end in 1865, when he passed away in Cape Town. After his death, upon autopsy, his biological sex was revealed, which created quite a stir. Barry’s story defies the gender and medical categorizations of her time, and her legacy has been reevaluated in recent years, with her being recognized not only as a pioneer in medicine, but also as a key figure in the history of gender.