Current understanding of reading disabilities is rooted in the early observations of physicians dating as far back in history as the 17th century. This article reviews medical case study research from the United Kingdom, Germany, and the United States that identified characteristics, etiological factors, and treatment methods of reading disorders. The physicians involved provided rich descriptions of the personal struggles of individuals who lost the ability to read because of brain insult as well as of those who failed to achieve literacy because of reading disability. Although many of the theories that were advanced by these early researchers have not been supported by current investigations, others have been substantiated and withstand the test of time. This article also addresses the validity of case study research from an historic and current-day perspective.
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