James Barry was a pioneering figure in the field of medicine, known for being one of the first female-to-male transgender surgeons. Born in 1789 in Ireland, Barry was assigned female at birth but lived as a man throughout his life. He graduated from the University of Edinburgh Medical School and went on to serve in the British Army as a surgeon, where he gained a reputation for his skills and dedication to patient care. Throughout his career, Barry worked in various locations, including South Africa, Gibraltar, and Canada. He was known for advocating for improved sanitation and healthcare for soldiers and the poor. Barry's true identity remained a secret until after his death in 1865, when it was revealed that he was assigned female at birth, sparking discussions about gender and identity in history.