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The War of Jenkins' Ear
Evan M Graboyes1, Timothy E Hullar
1Department of Otolaryngology, Washington University in St. Louis, 660 South Euclid Avenue, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA.
Summary
Surgical repair options for traumatic ear injuries were limited in the 18th century. These limitations may have amplified the impact of Robert Jenkins' ear injury, contributing to the War of Jenkins' Ear.
Area of Science:
- Medical History
- Plastic Surgery
- Otolaryngology
Background:
- The War of Jenkins' Ear (1739-1748) was ostensibly triggered by the severing of Captain Robert Jenkins' ear by Spanish sailors in 1731.
- This historical incident provides a unique lens to examine the state of auricular reconstructive surgery in the mid-18th century.
Observation:
- Historical records indicate a lack of established surgical techniques for complete traumatic auriculectomy during the period of Jenkins' injury.
- While methods for partial ear defect reconstruction existed, favoring local post-auricular flaps, total reconstruction was not a standard procedure.
Findings:
- Eighteenth-century surgeons lacked experience with total auricular avulsion repair, with some preferring prosthetic devices over surgical intervention.
- Reconstructive techniques for the auricle were less advanced compared to those available for nasal defects at the time.
Implications:
- The limitations in treating traumatic auricular defects may have heightened the symbolic importance of Jenkins' injury, contributing to the outbreak of war.
- Despite the ear incident, underlying geopolitical and commercial rivalries between Britain and Spain in the Caribbean were the primary drivers of the conflict.
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