Helen Adams Keller
- Born:
- June 27, 1880, Tuscumbia, Alabama, USA
- Died:
- June 1, 1968, Easton, Connecticut, USA
- Nationality:
- American
- Profession(s):
- Author, Political Activist, Lecturer
Early Life and Education
- Contracted an illness at 19 months old, resulting in both blindness and deafness.
- Began working with Anne Sullivan, a teacher from the Perkins School for the Blind, in 1887.
- Learned to communicate through finger-spelling.
- Attended Radcliffe College of Harvard University, graduating in 1904.
Career and Major Achievements
- Dedicated her life to advocating for people with disabilities.
- Traveled extensively, lecturing and inspiring audiences worldwide.
- Became a prominent voice in the women's suffrage movement and other social justice causes.
- Co-founded Helen Keller International in 1915 to combat blindness and malnutrition.
Notable Works
- The Story of My Life (1903): Autobiography detailing her childhood and education.
- Optimism (1903): A collection of essays on maintaining a positive outlook.
- The World I Live In (1908): An exploration of her experience of the world through her senses.
- Out of the Dark (1913): A collection of essays on socialism.
Legacy and Impact
Helen Keller's unwavering determination and tireless advocacy transformed societal attitudes toward people with disabilities. She stands as an enduring symbol of courage, resilience, and the power of education.
Filmography (Based on and Featuring Her Life)
| Year | Title | Role |
|---|---|---|
| 1919 | Deliverance | Herself |
| 1962 | The Miracle Worker | Subject of the film |
| 2000 | The Miracle Worker (TV Movie) | Subject of the film |
You can find a detailed biography of Helen Keller pdf online.