Approximately at what age did Tan’s initial symptoms first appear?

• A. 30
• B. 40
• C. 50
• D. 20

Answer: (A)

Tan’s initial language difficulties appeared in early adulthood, around age 30. This famous case is described by Broca as a progressive loss of speaking ability (expressive aphasia) with relatively preserved comprehension, which pointed to a focal disruption in the left frontal region known today as Broca’s area. The timing—roughly in the thirties—helps anchor the claim that language production centers are localized to this part of the brain. While the rest of the story involves his later course and autopsy findings, the onset around 30 is the historical detail most consistently cited, making it the best answer.