Helen Keller

Helen Keller (1880–1968) was an American author, activist, and lecturer whose life story has inspired millions around the world. Born in Tuscumbia, Alabama, Keller contracted an illness at 19 months old, which left her both deaf and blind. Despite these profound challenges, she became a symbol of perseverance, determination, and triumph over adversity.

Keller’s extraordinary achievements began with the arrival of her teacher, Anne Sullivan, who used innovative methods to teach her. Sullivan taught Keller to communicate using tactile sign language, allowing her to connect with the world around her. Keller went on to master reading, writing, and eventually speaking, breaking down barriers that many thought insurmountable for someone with her disabilities.

In 1904, Keller made history by graduating from Radcliffe College of Harvard University, becoming the first deaf-blind person to earn a Bachelor of Arts degree. Her academic success was a testament to her unwavering commitment to education and personal growth, and it opened doors for her to become a public figure and advocate for others with disabilities.

Keller's advocacy work extended beyond disability rights. She was a passionate supporter of women’s rights, labor rights, and social justice causes. Her work with the American Foundation for the Blind and her activism for marginalized communities helped improve the lives of countless people. Keller’s autobiography, The Story of My Life, published in 1903, became a classic of American literature and continues to inspire generations. Her resilience in overcoming the challenges of being deaf and blind, her intellectual contributions, and her advocacy for equality and justice have left an indelible mark on society. Helen Keller’s legacy endures as a powerful reminder of the potential within each person to overcome obstacles and make a lasting difference.