For decades, the narrative of the Franklin Expedition has been dominated by the theory of lead poisoning. However, modern science is rewriting the autopsy of the disaster.

The Lead Poisoning Theory

In the 1980s, anthropologist Owen Beattie conducted exhumations of the three crewmen buried on Beechey Island. Analysis of hair and bone revealed astronomical levels of lead. The theory posited that poorly soldered tin cans leached lead into the food, causing cognitive impairment, paranoia, and physical weakness, which doomed the crew.

New Findings: Zinc and Tuberculosis

Recent research using high-resolution confocal X-ray fluorescence imaging (synchrotron analysis) has challenged the lead theory.

Chronic vs. Acute: Lead exposure was high in 19th-century Britain generally. The levels found in the sailors were high, but likely not the singular cause of death.

Zinc Deficiency: New studies point to severe zinc deficiency, which would have suppressed immune systems, making the men susceptible to pneumonia and tuberculosis.

The Verdict: It was likely a “perfect storm” of scurvy, zinc deficiency, tuberculosis, and starvation, rather than lead madness alone.

DNA Identification: Giving Names to the Dead

Until recently, the skeletons scattered across King William Island were anonymous.

John Gregory: In 2021, DNA analysis identified the remains of Engineer John Gregory (HMS Erebus).

James Fitzjames: In 2024, skeletal remains were positively identified as Commander James Fitzjames, confirming that even senior officers died during the march south.

These scientific advancements allow us to move from general statistics to personal tragedies, reconnecting the lost men with their living descendants.