After his remarkable survival of a traumatic brain injury in 1848, Phineas Gage lived for another 12 years, navigating a life significantly altered by the accident. His post-injury existence involved a variety of odd jobs and a eventual decline in health that led him to relocate.
Life After the Tamping Iron Incident
Phineas Gage's accident, where a tamping iron pierced his skull, became one of the most famous cases in neuroscience, demonstrating the brain's role in personality and behavior. Against all odds, he survived the immediate trauma and began a new chapter of his life.
His survival and altered personality attracted significant attention, and he utilized this notoriety in some of his early post-accident endeavors.
Post-Accident Occupations: A Summary
Gage's life after the injury saw him undertake several different occupations, reflecting his attempts to reintegrate into society and earn a living.
| Period/Location | Occupation | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| New York City | Exhibitor at Barnum's American Museum | Displayed himself and the tamping iron as a medical curiosity. |
| Hanover, New Hampshire | Livery Stable Worker at Dartmouth Inn | Involved in caring for horses and operating a livery service. |
| Chile | Coach Driver | Drove coaches, showcasing a remarkable level of functional recovery. |
While he could perform these jobs, accounts suggest his personality had changed drastically. Once described as responsible and well-mannered, he reportedly became irritable, impulsive, and prone to using profanity. This significant shift led his friends to state he was "no longer Gage."
Later Years and Demise
By 1859, Phineas Gage's health began to fail. He moved to San Francisco, California, to live with his mother and sister, who were residing there. His condition deteriorated, and he experienced seizures, likely a long-term consequence of his brain injury.
Phineas Gage passed away on May 21, 1860, in San Francisco, roughly 12 years after his infamous accident. His case remains a cornerstone in the study of neurobiology and the brain's frontal lobes, particularly their role in executive functions and personality.
For further reading on Phineas Gage's enduring legacy, you can explore resources from institutions like the Countway Library of Medicine at Harvard University and the University of Vermont Larner College of Medicine.
