Biography of Helen Keller:
Helen Adams Keller was an American author, disability rights advocate, political activist and lecturer. She was born on June 27, 1880, in Tuscumbia, Alabama, the daughter of Arthur Henley Keller and Catherine Everett (Adams) Keller. At the age of 19 months, she lost her sight and hearing due to an illness. She then communicated primarily using home signs until the age of seven, when she met her first teacher and life-long companion Anne Sullivan. Sullivan taught Keller language, including reading and writing. After an education at both specialist and mainstream schools, Keller attended Radcliffe College of Harvard University and became the first deafblind person in the United States to earn a Bachelor of Arts degree.
 |
| Biography of Helen Keller |
Keller worked for the American Foundation for the Blind (AFB) from 1924 until 1968. During this time, she toured the United States and traveled to 35 countries around the globe advocating for those with vision loss. Keller was also a prolific author, writing 14 books and hundreds of speeches and essays on topics ranging from animals to Mahatma Gandhi. She campaigned for those with disabilities, for women’s suffrage, labor rights, and world peace. In 1909, she joined the Socialist Party of America. She was a founding member of the American Civil Liberties Union.
Keller’s autobiography, The Story of My Life (1903), publicized her education and life with Sullivan. It was adapted as a play by William Gibson, and this was also adapted as a film under the same title, The Miracle Worker. Her birthplace has been designated and preserved as a National Historic Landmark. Since 1954 it has been operated as a house museum and sponsors an annual “Helen Keller Day”.
Overview of Helen Keller’s life:
Helen Keller (1880–1968) was an American author, lecturer, and political activist. She overcame the challenges of being both deaf and blind to become one of the 20th century’s leading humanitarians and advocates for the disabled. Here is an overview of her remarkable life:
Early Life of Helen Keller:
Helen Adams Keller was born on June 27, 1880, in Tuscumbia, Alabama, USA.
At the age of 19 months, she suffered an illness, likely scarlet fever or meningitis, which left her deaf and blind.
Anne Sullivan:
Anne Sullivan, a teacher, entered Keller’s life when Helen was seven years old.
Through Sullivan’s dedication and innovative teaching methods, Keller learned to communicate using finger spelling.
Education:
Keller attended Perkins School for the Blind and later Radcliffe College, becoming the first deaf-blind person to earn a Bachelor of Arts degree.
Communication:
Helen Keller learned to speak, read braille, and write with the help of Anne Sullivan.
She also learned to communicate using the manual alphabet and later used a special typewriter to write.
Helen Keller as Author and Lecturer:
Keller wrote her autobiography, “The Story of My Life,” which was published in 1903.
She became a prolific author, writing numerous articles, essays, and books, including “The World I Live In” and “Out of the Dark.”
Social and Political Activism:
Helen Keller was a strong advocate for the rights of people with disabilities.
She was also involved in various social and political causes, including women’s suffrage, pacifism, and labor rights.
International Fame:
Keller’s achievements brought her international acclaim, and she traveled extensively, delivering lectures and speeches.
Legacy:
Helen Keller’s life story remains an inspiration to millions.
The Helen Keller Archives at the American Foundation for the Blind preserves her writings, speeches, and personal memorabilia.
Death of Helen Keller:
Helen Keller passed away on June 1, 1968, at the age of 87, in Easton, Connecticut.
Helen Keller’s journey from isolation and darkness to a life of accomplishment and advocacy is a testament to the power of determination, education, and the human spirit. Her legacy continues to influence and inspire individuals worldwide.