This ASL dictionary is for you! We have included over 1,000 words and phrases from our Complete 3-Level ASL Course vocabulary lists. This means that if you learn this essential vocabulary from our dictionary, you can start having basic conversations in sign language before you know it! Are you intimidated by massive ASL dictionaries? Then this is the right place to […]
Step 3 – Start Talking Are you ready to start signing? This is so exciting! It’s now time to choose the signs you are going to start with. Go ahead and choose a small handful of signs from the vocabulary link below (be sure to include not only need-based signs but sign that will excite […]
Conversational Phrases To see all of the American Sign Language phrases videos we have, click the link below to visit our comprehensive dictionary: Phrases in ASL => American Sign Language Phrase Videos Below is a list of all the phrases we have available to view at the link above: “Beginning and ending a thought” 11 […]
Step 9 – Advancing Your child is growing and advancing! How exciting! You are now probably combining signs and speech with your child. This can greatly enhance his vocabulary as well as give him the ability to learn new concepts that he may not be able to verbalize. There are many more fun things you […]
Step 6 – More Signs Moving on from basic signs you learned in Step 3, choose some secondary words from the vocabulary link below. Try to branch out a little more from the first words you learned and more closely point out the world your baby is growing into: => Baby Sign Language Vocabulary You […]
ASL 1 – Unit 9 In this unit of the free online sign language classes, you will be learning about verbs. VocabularyJobs & Careers Visit the Online Course Vocabulary Category for this unit to view videos of these vocabulary words. Vocabulary ACCOUNTANT ACTOR AIRFORCE ARCHITECT ARCHITECT (2) ARMY/MILITARY ARTIST ASSISTANT BASEBALL PLAYER BLOG BOSS BUILDING […]
ASL 1 – Unit 1 In this unit of the free sign language class, you will be learning how to fingerspell. VocabularyFirst Signs Visit the Online Course Vocabulary Category for this unit to view videos of these phrases and vocabulary words. Phrases Good afternoon Good morning Goodbye Goodnight Hello How are you? How are you? […]
ASL 2 – Unit 8 Inflection In this unit of the free sign language classes, you will be learning about inflection. VocabularyHouse & Home Visit the Online Course Vocabulary Category for this unit to view videos of these phrases and vocabulary words. Phrases Excuse me I’m sorry to interrupt, but I have an important message. […]
ASL 2 – Unit 6 Pluralization In this unit of the free sign language lesson, you will be learning about pluralization. Vocabulary Visit the Online Course Vocabulary Category for this unit to view videos of these phrases. Phrases Is that true? Sorry, I already have plans. What do you think? Who do you live with? […]
ASL 1 – Unit 7 In this unit, you will learn American Sign Language pronouns and how to index. VocabularyFriends & Family Visit the Online Course Vocabulary Category for this unit to view videos of these phrases and vocabulary words. Phrases Are you married? Do you have children? How many siblings do you have? I […]
ASL 3 – Unit 2 Advanced Role Shifting In this unit as you learn American Sign Language, you will be learning advanced role shifting techniques. VocabularyMath & Money Visit the Online Course Vocabulary Category for this unit to view videos of these phrases and vocabulary words. Phrases 11 + 15 = 26 235 x 12 […]
ASL 1 – Unit 5 In this unit, you will learn ASL word order. Vocabulary Colors, Time, & Routine Visit the Online Course Vocabulary Category for this unit to view videos of these phrases and vocabulary words. Phrases Are you hungry? How did you get here? I have to go home. I took […]
ASL 2 – Unit 12 Final Unit In this unit as you learn ASL, you will be wrapping up what you have learned so far. Conversation Comprehension 12.1 Turn to page 14 in your workbook. In the video below, Deborah and Mark are going to have a conversation. In your workbook, some of the dialogue […]
ASL 2 – Unit 7 Conveying Distance In this unit as you learn asl online, you will be learning how to convey distance. Vocabulary Visit the Online Course Vocabulary Category for this unit to view videos of these phrases. Phrases I want to introduce you to my friend Julie. My cell phone can email, send […]
ASL 1 – Unit 10 In this unit as you learn sign language free, you will learn about ASL negation. VocabularyEmotions & Character Traits Visit the Online Course Vocabulary Category for this unit to view videos of these phrases and vocabulary words. Phrases I feel OK. I feel tired. I feel wonderful. Vocabulary ANNOYING ARGUE […]
ASL 1 – Unit 3 In this unit as you learn sign language online, you will learn about the five sign parameters. VocabularySchool & Education Visit the Online Course Vocabulary Category for this unit to view videos of these phrases and vocabulary words. Phrases Are you a student? Are you deaf? Are you learning sign […]
ASL 2 – Unit 10 Object Locations In this unit as you learn sign language online, you will be learning how to sign object locations. Vocabulary Visit the Online Course Vocabulary Category for this unit to view videos of these phrases. Phrases I put a camera on the top of my front door entrance. My […]
ASL 1 – Unit 2 In this unit, you will be learning American Sign Language numbers and Deaf Culture. VocabularyFood & Drink Visit the Online Course Vocabulary Category for this unit to view videos of these phrases and vocabulary words. Phrases Can you (please) sign slower? Can you (please) sign that again? Can you fingerspell […]
ASL 2 – Unit 9 Room Descriptions In this unit as you start learning American Sign Language, you will be learning how to sign room descriptions. VocabularyTechnology & Household Goods Visit the Online Course Vocabulary Category for this unit to view videos of these phrases and vocabulary words. Phrases How do you wash your laundry […]
ASL 1 Introduction Learning sign language is so much fun! Unfortunately, many ASL classes are not taught correctly, expensive, and scheduled. The ASL classes on this website are much different. They are organized, straight to the point, fun, free, and at your own pace. Materials you will need for the class ASL 1 WORKBOOK (PDF) […]
ASL 1 – Unit 4 In this unit, you will learn more about the five sign parameters because you are learning sign language online. VocabularyAnimals, Home, & Transportation Visit the Online Course Vocabulary Category for this unit to view videos of these phrases and vocabulary words. Phrases Are your parents Deaf? Can you read lips? […]
ASL 2 – Unit 11 Describing Objects In this unit as you are learning sign language online, you will be learning how to describe objects. Vocabulary Visit the Online Course Vocabulary Category for this unit to view videos of these phrases. Phrases At the beach we wear sun block, sunglasses, and use an umbrella for […]
ASL 1 – Unit 12 In this unit of the online ASL classes, you will learn the rest of the important ASL numbers. VocabularyAdvanced Numbers Visit the Online Course Vocabulary Category for this unit to view videos of these phrases and vocabulary words. Phrases How old are you? I am 20 years old. See you […]
ASL 1 – Unit 8 In this unit of the sign language classes, you will learn more about pronouns and directional verbs. VocabularyPhysical Features & Clothing Visit the Online Course Vocabulary Category for this unit to view videos of these vocabulary words. Vocabulary BALD BEARD BELT BLACK BRACELET BROKEN CLOTHES DIRTY DRESS FAT FAT (2) […]
ASL 3 – Unit 3 Narratives In this unit of the free American Sign Language classes, you will be learning the basics of how to construct narratives. VocabularyLife Events Visit the Online Course Vocabulary Category for this unit to view videos of these phrases and vocabulary words. Phrases Her least favorite person got laid off […]
ASL 3 – Unit 8 Amenities and Features In this unit of the free American Sign Language course, you will be learning how to sign amenities and features. Vocabulary Visit the Online Course Vocabulary Category for this unit to view videos of these phrases. Phrases Her car is black and has a loud engine. My […]
ASL 2 – Unit 3 Time Duration and Regularity In this unit of the American Sign Language free classes, you will be learning about time duration and regularity. Vocabulary Visit the Online Course Vocabulary Category for this unit to view videos of these phrases. Phrases Every morning I wake up happy because I sleep all […]
ASL 2 – Unit 4 Temporal Aspect In this unit of the free American Sign Language instruction, you will be learning about temporal aspect. VocabularyActivities & Hobbies Visit the Online Course Vocabulary Category for this unit to view videos of these phrases and vocabulary words. Phrases Could you go to the store and pick me […]
ASL 2 – Unit 1 Sentence Types In this unit of the online sign language lessons, you will be learning more sentence types. VocabularyFood & Drink Visit the Online Course Vocabulary Category for this unit to view videos of these phrases and vocabulary words. Phrases Hockey is the best sport to watch live. How much […]
ASL 1 – Unit 6 In this unit as you learn sign language online, you will be learning about ASL sentence types. VocabularySports & Music Visit the Online Course Vocabulary Category for this unit to view videos of these vocabulary words. Vocabulary BASEBALL BASKETBALL BASS BOAT BOWLING DANCE DRUMS FALL-DOWN FALL-DOWN (2) FAST FIRST FOOTBALL […]
ASL 3 – Unit 1 Role Shifting In this unit of the American Sign Language online classes, you will be learning how to role shift. Vocabulary Visit the Online Course Vocabulary Category for this unit to view videos of these phrases. Phrases For this job you will need to check your email and clean your […]
ASL 2 – Unit 5 Classifiers In this unit of the free American Sign Language classes, you will be learning about classifiers. Vocabulary Visit the Online Course Vocabulary Category for this unit to view videos of these phrases. Phrases Do you mind if I borrow your car? I don’t mind that you borrow the car, […]
ASL 2 – Unit 2 Time Signs In this unit of the ASL online classes, you will be learning about time signs. VocabularySeasons & Holidays Visit the Online Course Vocabulary Category for this unit to view videos of these phrases and vocabulary words. Phrases How was your weekend? I am a college student and I […]
ASL 3 – Unit 11 Final Unit In this unit of the ASL online classes, we will be wrapping up what you’ve learned in this class. Expression Assignment 3-5 To practice your storytelling expression skills, I want you to use your webcam (or a video camera) and sign your favorite fairy tale. This should be […]
ASL 3 – Unit 4 Accident Narratives In this unit of the free online sign language classes, you will be learning how to sign accident narratives. VocabularyHealth & Medical Care Visit the Online Course Vocabulary Category for this unit to view videos of these phrases and vocabulary words. Phrases I feel sick with a sore […]
ASL 3 – Unit 5 Giving Information In this unit as you learn sign language free, you will be learning how to give information. VocabularyGeography & Culture Visit the Online Course Vocabulary Category for this unit to view videos of these phrases and vocabulary words. Phrases Germany makes the best cars for winter weather and […]
ASL 2 Introduction Learning sign language is so much fun! Welcome to the second class in the Start ASL online curriculum! Materials you will need for the class ASL 2 WORKBOOK (PDF) (Required & Free) – You will use the workbook for the class assignments and activities. ASL 2 Vocabulary Study Sheet (PDF) (Helpful & […]
ASL 3 Introduction Learning sign language is so much fun! Welcome to the third class in the Start ASL online curriculum! Materials ASL 3 WORKBOOK (PDF) (Required & Free) – You will use the workbook for the class assignments and activities. ASL 3 Vocabulary Study Sheet (PDF) (Helpful & Free) – This is a list […]
ASL 3 – Unit 9 Storytelling In this unit as you learning sign language online free, you will be learning how to tell a story. Vocabulary Visit the Online Course Vocabulary Category for this unit to view videos of these phrases. Phrases “Beginning and ending a thought” Once upon a time Storytelling Storytelling is very […]
ASL 3 – Unit 6 Sign Language Games In this unit of the online sign language classes, you will be learning how to sign sign language games. VocabularyGames Visit the Online Course Vocabulary Category for this unit to view videos of these vocabulary words. Vocabulary GO AHEAD LEADER LOSE NOT ALLOWED NOT ALLOWED (2) NO-WAY […]
ASL 3 – Unit 7 Handshape Stories and Deaf Jokes In this unit of the online ASL classes, you will be learning about handshape stories and Deaf jokes. Conversation Review 7.1 Turn to page 12 in your workbook. In the video below, Crystal, Christine, and Cristian will have a conversation. Answer the questions in your […]
No Hearing People Here! Deaf people have been more in the spotlight than you know. There are several famous deaf people who have been the founders of many organizations, been pioneers in deaf education, written books, painted famous artworks, held world records in sports, acted on several well-known television shows, and even started newspapers… Famous […]
Hearing loss is more like “Deafness Gain” to people who are part of Deaf Culture. The loss of hearing is actually a very small part of being a Deaf person. However, it’s very useful to study the implications of deafness when you’re becoming involved in the Deaf community. Most hearing people only see the lack […]
Becoming an American Sign Language interpreter is a very popular choice for many ASL students. People choose to become interpreters because they love American Sign Language, love Deaf people, and enjoy being exposed to a wide variety of interesting subject matter and experiences. Interpreting is a very fun and rewarding career. You get to wake […]
Top 150 Videos – Basic ASL Sign Language Words We have compiled a great collection of videos showing the top 150 basic ASL sign language words. These are the words that you should learn first. Learning the signs for these ASL sign language words is a great way to build a basic vocabulary foundation before […]
Andrew Foster is a very important person in Deaf history. He was the first African American Deaf person to earn a Bachelor’s Degree from Gallaudet University and is known as the “Father of the Deaf” of Africa because he founded the first school for the deaf there and went on to establish 31 more. Andrew […]
By: Anonymous Clearly, I can’t choose a favorite, because every one of them are breath-taking! But the person I admire the most is Edward Miner Gallaudet. He continued his father’s legacy, Thomas Hopkins Gallaudet. In 1857, Amos Kendall established a deaf and blind school. When Edward was offered an opportunity to lead the school, he gladly […]
By: Kaylee Perry (05/16/18) The article I chose was “My Deaf Son Fought Speech. Sign Language Let Him Bloom.” by Elizabeth Engelman. The whole article related to her son who was born profoundly deaf. Elizabeth, being a hearing mother, immediately went to see if he was able to get the Cochlear implant surgery. He was […]
By: Catherine Ritchie (07/22/17) The Deaf community has a rich culture with many prominent figures in its history. Some whose names are fairly well known such as Gallaudet and Helen Keller and other’s whom receive less recognition despite their important contributions. My favorite person thus far in Deaf history is one of the latter – […]
By: Mary Bolin (07/20/17) I am very interested in the Abbé Charles-Michel de l’Épée, who pioneered Deaf education in France and started a school for Deaf children, l’Institution Nationale des Sourds-Muets à Paris in 1771 after having encountered two young Deaf girls in an impoverished area of Paris. He collected and organized the signs that […]
Memorizing the American Sign Language alphabet (also known as the American Manual Alphabet) is the first step when learning American Sign Language and most new sign language students rely on fingerspelling from the ASL alphabet when they don’t know the sign for something. Grammatically, fingerspelling is used in ASL for signing proper nouns (people’s names, […]
By: Sultana Anjum (07/14/17) Meningitis took away Leroy Colombo’s ability to walk as well as hear when he was only seven years old. Although he was never able to hear again Leroy did recover the paralysis of his legs after he took up swimming to strengthen his lower body. In his lifetime he would save […]
By: Jennifer Hatley (07/07/17) I find music to be my outlet for so many different things. I chose John Alvin Ray as he was an American singer, songwriter, and pianist. John Alvin Ray made his debut and held his popularity in the 1950s. I find that being able to find and not be afraid to […]
CONTENTS
By: Karen Kotovsky (07/05/17) For this writing assignment I chose not to write about just one significant person from Deaf History, but many. I am thoroughly intrigued by these brave/strong students and faculty at Gallaudet University who stood up for right in the DPN – Deaf President Now protest. I have a tendency to be […]
By: Bryley Williams (07/03/17) Laura Catherine Redden Searing was born in 1839 in Maryland. When she was eleven years old, she lost her hearing due to meningitis. In 1855, Redden enrolled in the Missouri School for the Deaf, where she continued her education and learned sign language. Searing’s first published essay was in the American […]
By: Lindsey Mueller (07/03/17) Let me begin by stating that, while I understand the importance of keeping chapters at a manageable length I feel this one may have indeed been too short. I appreciate the concise summary of Deaf culture and as a hearing person I must say that I found this chapter absolutely fascinating. […]
By: Kayla Nickles (07/03/17) There are many wonderful influential deaf people in history. My favorite would have to be Ludwig Van Beethoven. He wasn’t born deaf, but he became deaf later on in his life. We all know Beethoven as a famous musician, but not very many people associate him with the deaf community. How […]
By: Kristy Chase (06/30/17) As a new learner of ASL and Deaf culture and history, I’ve been reading not only the information in my assignments as well as doing deeper research and reading on my own. I find it quite intriguing to find more information ‘out there’ pertaining to the various topics. I find the […]
By: Emily Keller (06/22/17) My favorite deaf person in history would happen to be Ludwig Van Beethoven. I absolutely love music, and art, and to know that the famous Beethoven was deaf, yet still wrote the most intricate and melodious music will never cease to amaze me. We know that we hasn’t always deaf, but […]
By: Rozelyn Wisen (06/19/17) I have been thinking about this assignment for awhile now and contemplating who I felt was the most interesting and made the most impact on deaf culture. At first I was interested in writing about Abbe Charles-Michel de l’Epee and his contribution to deaf education and the developement of Sign Language, […]
By: Jennifer Spain Greene (06/05/17) William C. Stokoe is my favorite Historical Deaf Figure, because he saw deaf people as special and unique, and recognized the signs of a language being formed when other educators wrote off sign language as a “poor substitute for speech” in 1955. In the 1960s Stokoe saw that sign language […]
By: Barbara Childress (05/31/17) Even though Abbe Charles Michel de L’Epee did not invent “sign language”, he is my favorite historical figure in Deaf History. His desire to include deaf children in the learning and practice of religion speaks highly of his heart for all of mankind. In many historical settings, priests, educators and missionaries […]
By: Debbie Cirre (05/25/17) At a time in history when deaf people had no rights and were even considered unteachable, one man emerged who opened the doors and changed the course of deaf education. Abbe Charles Michel de l’Epee, known as the “Father of the Deaf”, is my favorite person from deaf history for this […]
By: Sydnie (05/22/17) My favorite person from Deaf History is William Stokoe. I liked that he made an effort in proving the significance and importance of Sign Language. Forcing deaf people to learn to communicate through speech and lip reading I feel is doing them a disservice. I realize it was possible for them to […]
By: Timmons McElveen (05/17/17) Not only was Heather Whitestone the first (and only to this date) deaf Miss America, but she was the first Miss America that was crowned despite having a disability. While competing in the Miss America competition, she gained respect from people both inside and outside of the hearing community. Whitestone was […]
By: Kylie Sundsmo (04/18/17) Laurent Clerc is one of the most famous people in Deaf history. He is known for helping start the first permanent school for the Deaf in the United States, called the American School for the Deaf. He is one of my favorite people from deaf history because he devoted much of […]
By: Kimberly Brunner (04/12/17) “Oh, I love this song.” My Grandmother smiles and turns the volume on the cassette player up. Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony rolls around the room like water when it’s played aloud, every drop and rise becoming inadvertently stuck in your heart and becoming impossible to get out. It’s incredibly recognizable, and considered […]
By: Audrey Sebastian Gonzalez (04/08/17) From the list of various historical figures who played an important role in deaf history, William C. Stokoe, Jr. (1919-2000), an English professor and American linguistic, is my favorite. Foremost, Stokoe, while teaching at Gallaudet University, researched American Sign Language extensively by observing students sign. From this study, an important […]
By: Jack (04/07/17) Teresa de Cartagena was a nun in 15th Century Spain. She is remarkable for being Spain’s first feminist writer as well as for being deaf and writing positively about it. Teresa went deaf in her late twenties/early thirties. She was devastated by this, thinking that God was punishing her despite her devotion […]
By: Cynthia Brainerd (02/27/17) Regina Olson Hughes (1895-1993) became fully deaf at the age of 14, due to the effects of scarlet fever. She could still speak fluently, but had to find new ways of communicating with the world around her. She attended the famous Gallaudet College where she later lived for 30 years, married […]
By: Coy McQueen (02/26/17) Laura Bridgman was born in 1829 in Hanover, New Hampshire and is famous for being the first deaf-blind child to get a formal education in America. In addition, Charles Dickens wrote about her achievement in American Notes and she was connected to Anne Sullivan, Helen Keller’s teacher. Bridgman contracted scarlet fever […]
By: Heather Meyer (02/20/17) Thomas Gallaudet is my favorite in Deaf history for multiply reasons. I see many people stating how Gallaudet brought sign language to America but sign language was already here in many home signs as well as other regional signed systems (i.e. Martha’s Vinyard). What Gallaudet did was bring the Deaf community […]
By: Steph Grizzard (02/24/17) I don’t know if I can pick a favorite person to influence deaf history. It is such a rich history and the culture is what it is today because of all of them together. Abbe de L’Epee founded the first public deaf school and used all of the signs that the […]
By: Alex Maj (01/27/17) In my opinion the most influential historical figure to American Sign Language is Thomas Hopkins Gallaudet. He was the first person in America that believed deaf people needed to be heard and decided to start teach. His first student was a 9 year old girls, the daughter of his neighbor. Mr. […]
By: Erin Young (02/14/17) My favourite person in Deaf history is Laurent Clerc because he was Deaf and he taught Thomas Gallaudet FSL. I think it is very cool of him to be willing to teach a hearing person sign language, and to accompany him to another country to start a school for the Deaf. […]
By: Ciera Bailey (01/16/17) My favorite person is Thomas Hopkins Gallaudet. He was born on December 10th, 1787 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. At age seventeen, he graduated at Yale University in 1805, earning a bachelor’s degree and graduated with the highest honors. Few years later, in 1808 Gallaudet earned his master’s degree at Yale University. Gallaudet […]
By: Sam Blomquist (01/11/17) May 24th, 1950 in a small Ohio town, a happy healthy baby girl was born to a loving devoted family. Sue lost her hearing at 18 months of age. Like all deaf persons, she was facing a long hard road. Not only with herself and learning how to communicate; but also […]
By Claudia Naidoo – Durban, South Africa (05/30/2016) Thomas Hopkins Gallaudet is my favourite historical figure in American Deaf History. Whilst doing additional research, I found that he had made a sacrifice of his own dreams in order to invest time into giving Alice Cogswell an education (around year 1814).I think that it is remarkable […]
By: Christina Buccafurni (04/27/16) William “Dummy” Hoy (May 23, 1862 – December 15, 1961) is known for being the most accomplished deaf baseball player to play in Major League Baseball. He was born in Houckstown, Ohio and lost his hearing during childhood due to an illness. The word “dumb” meant someone who couldn’t speak (yet Hoy […]
By: Annette Banks (07/24/16) When I read the history of Thomas Gallaudet, I never knew he was a Reverend. I am a Christian and I can see how the hand of God was guiding this man to become a renowned American pioneer, so every deaf person could have a voice to communicate. I believe that […]
By: Bethany Crouch (11/08/16) Thomas was a young teenager at age 14, when he graduated from Yale University. He also began studying sign language and European educational systems and how they taught students. Gallaudet was challenged and inspired by the educational system that he traveled to Europe to expand his further knowledge and reach out […]
By: Marcus McNeal (11/29/16) “Everybody has to start somewhere. You have your whole future ahead of you. Perfection doesn’t happen right away.” (Haruki Murakami, 2006). The quote speaks a lot to the person who I’ve chosen to write about, who is known as Pedro Ponce de Leon. A 16th century Spanish Monk, Ponce de Leon […]
By: David Cooper (10/13/16) The deaf person wrote about was Kevin Lucas Smire who was also known as “Deaf Kev.” He was born on October 28, 1996 and is 19 years old. I picked him because I love music so I searched for hours looking for a deaf musician and I found this guy. He […]
By: Jamie Saults (05/18/2016) I am writing about Alexander Graham Bell because I thought it interesting that he fought so hard for the deaf community and even married a deaf person, yet also thought that deaf people weakened society. His beliefs led to a debate in the form of communication used by the deaf and […]
By: Karri Kimery (08/18/2016) As I was reading about people in the deaf community, I came across Matt and Kay Daigle. These two met in 1993, at Deaf/Hearing touring theater company where they were both cast members. These two are comedy partners. While they were at a cartooning convention in Missouri, Kay approached Matt concerning […]
By: Brittany Pare (10/30/16) My favorite person from Deaf history is William Stokoe because he was able to prove that Sign Language was a real language, not just a translation of English. This was an incredibly important milestone for the Deaf community because it allowed for American Sign Language to be recognized as a national […]
By: Ellie Swanson (11/04/2016) Laura Redden Searing was a female deaf poet and journalist in the late 19th century into the early 20th century. She was born in 1839 and died in 1923 and became deaf at the age of 11. She attended the Missouri School for the Deaf because it was no longer possible […]
By: Hanna England (09/15/16) My favorite person from Deaf History is Alexander Graham Bell. Graham was born on March 3, 1847, and later died on August 2, of 1922. Although Bell is mainly known for his invention of the telephone, he also is known as the father of oralism in Deaf history. Alexander grew up […]
By: Marie Cunningham (03/28/16) For my favorite person from Deaf History, I choose both Laura Bridgman and Helen Keller. I admire both woman because at a time when learning to communicate was difficult for the Deaf, they learned to communicate and became educated. Back when these women accomplished these things it was not easy for […]
By: Beth Swanberg (06/13/2016) Thomas Hopkins Gallaudet is my favorite deaf person for several reasons. First, Gallaudet, who was born December 10, 1787 in Pennsylvania and died September 10, 1851, was a Yale educated man who graduated with high honors. And, he also studied theology in order to minister to people. He used his education to […]
By: Kirsten Aucoin (10/06/16) Marlee Matlin is a Deaf woman known for becoming the first – and so far only – Deaf actor to win an Oscar. Matlin’s film debut was what earned her the award. She starred as a main character in the movie ‘Children of a Lesser God’ in 1986, when she was […]
By: Hannah (10/18/16) On December 21, 1829, in Hanover, New Hampshire, a beautiful baby Laura Dewey was born, and was the third child of Daniel and Harmony Bridgman, two New England farmers. At the age of 24 months Laura became very ill with scarlet fever, and in spite of losing all of her senses, expect […]
By: Kanesha Gittens (08/27/16) I chose to do my paper on Edward Miner Gallaudet. The reason I chose Gallaudet was because we have the same birthday. That had me interested and finding out more about him. He was an extraordinary man who had a dream of doing more in life. Which for some years he […]
By: Natalie Picone (08/27/16) In 1926 at the age of 19, Gertrude Ederle was the first woman to swim across the English Channel. Twenty-one miles from Dover, England to Cape Griz-Nez. Gertrude was born to German immigrants in New York City on October 23, 1905. She was one of five children. Ederle did not learn […]
By: Nicole McGovern (10/31/16) So many people in Deaf history are significant and have made a great impact on Deaf culture in today’s society. My favorite person from Deaf history would have to be Thomas Hopkins Gallaudet. I chose Gallaudet as my favorite because he initiated American Sign Language in 1814. He was inspired by […]
By: Alyssa Mattingly (10/20/2016) “ASL is not just a different language, it is a different medium for talking, and this fact may make you hesitant, and perhaps even suspicious about what you can and cannot say in ASL. You are in good company because Deaf people wonder how it is possible to talk in speech […]
By: Shelley Udzinski (07/06/16) While Thomas Gallaudet is perhaps the most prominent name in US deaf history, equally as impressive are the accomplishments of his son, Edward Miner Gallaudet. What is perhaps the most intriguing fact is that he began his journey in deaf history at the young age of 16, two years after the […]
By: Anonymous (10/06/16) The famous deaf person I choose was Julia Brace. She lived a long time ago in the 1800’s. I choose her because her personality stood out to me. She was deafblind, which makes me admire her work so much more! At the age of 5, because of a sickness, she became deaf […]
By: Emily Wucher (05/04/2016) Many people were a great influence to what deaf culture has become. It was hard to choose a favorite, but I think the most influential was Thomas Hopkins Gallaudet. Thomas met a young girl, Alice Cogswell, while going place to place teaching kids. Alice, who was deaf and mute, inspired Thomas […]
By: Lynette Wucher (05/04/2016) Thomas Hopkins Gallaudet had a major part in the history of American Sign Language. Due to his neighbor’s daughter being deaf, he sought out a way for her to have an education. He took his time to work with Alice but was unsuccessful in finding a solution to communicate and teach. […]
Canada, Mexico, United Kingdom, and Any Others If you’re looking for Deaf events in countries other than the US or want to post your own, you’ve come to the right place! To Search Deaf events in your country, use your browser’s Find ability (CTRL+F) to search for your country’s name on the page. To Post […]
If you’re looking for Deaf events in the southern United States or want to post your own, you’ve come to the right place! To Search Deaf events in your state, use your browser’s Find ability (CTRL+F) to search for your state’s name on the page. To Post Deaf events in your state, leave a comment […]
If you’re looking for Deaf events in the mid-western United States or want to post your own, you’ve come to the right place! To Search Deaf events in your state, use your browser’s Find ability (CTRL+F) to search for your state’s name on the page. To Post Deaf events in your state, leave a comment […]
If you’re looking for Deaf events in the northeastern United States or want to post your own, you’ve come to the right place! To Search Deaf events in your state, use your browser’s Find ability (CTRL+F) to search for your state’s name on the page. To Post Deaf events in your state, leave a comment […]
If you’re looking for Deaf events in the western United States or want to post your own, you’ve come to the right place! To Search Deaf events in your state, use your browser’s Find ability (CTRL+F) to search for your state’s name on the page. To Post Deaf events in your state, leave a comment […]
by Triniti (Washington) Helen Keller is my personal favorite deaf person. I was completely astounded when I heard her story. As a second or third grader, I simply couldn’t imagine not being able to see or hear. She is to this day my idol, and one of the many reasons that I have continued to […]
by Annaleise I had to pick both Laura Bridgmn and Helen Keller because both are amazing women who did amazing things. Before Deaf Culture was actually recognized as something every Deaf person had difficulties being educated and accepted into society. However these lady’s found a way to be educated and to learn to communicate with […]
by Anonymous When it comes to Deaf Culture and its people, how do you pick a favorite. The accomplishments that these people have made have not only changed the community but helped it grow. I could have easily picked America’s inspiration Alice Cogswell. At the age of 9 she met Thomas Hopkins Gallaudet. Alice showed […]
by Rochelle (El Paso, Tx, US) I work at a company that employees many deaf. To accommodate and assist them we have several interpreters on staff to aid with communication. We are having issues with the deaf treating the interpreters with disrespect or acting like the interpreters are their possessions instead of people. I want […]
by Melissa Ratsch (Spokane, WA) This is played just like the game of telephone but you use signs instead of talking. You have the students line up in equal groups, at least 5-6 people per line. The first person in each line faces the teacher while all the others in line turn their backs. The […]
by Lisa I’m going to talk about someone here who first opened my eyes to sign language, and that is the actress Louise Fletcher. Louise Fletcher most famously played Nurse Ratched in the movie One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest. I have always been a huge movie fan, and have, since I can remember, stayed […]
by T. Brown (Humble, TX) If you like telephone you would will like this game. Instructions: 1st (2) lines. Then explain that the person in front of you will turn and tap the person in front. Once they are face to face both will have their EYES shut,(NOTE: CAN USE HEAR PLUGS) the leader will […]
by Brad (MA) My favorite person in Deaf History is William Stokoe. At first, I was going to go with Geronimo Cardano because being the first to do something takes conviction and courage. However, turning preconceived notions on their head, I think, is even harder. When learning to read, teachers are always urging you to […]
by Stacey Neifert (Winchester,KY) My favorite historical figure is of course Abbe de L’Epee I will admit I don’t know much about the deaf community, culture or history aside from what I have learned during this online class. every time I find myself doing a reading assignment I’m almost in tears learning in detail about […]
by Elle Adema (Winthrop, Minnesota, USA) Heather Whitestone McCallum is my favorite person from Deaf History because she used her fame and popularity to bring the Deaf Community into the spotlight with her. Just because she won Miss America that didn’t change the fact that she still wanted to be able to help other Deaf […]
by Vickie (La Verkin, UT, USA) Is it possible to have more than one favorite in deaf history? I am in awe of the people throughout history (and even today) who gave their all to make a difference in someone else’s life. There are those who became interested in helping their own children and ended […]
by Keana (Colorado ) Juan Pablo de Bonet is my favorite person to go down in the Deaf community history because all he did. He established many schools, made some signs for his deaf child and the schools he established as well as teaching them, he was a hearing man that really connected with the […]
by Nikki Delay (British Columbia) I enjoyed learning about Julia Brace. Of course I had heard about Helen Keller and Annie Sullivan as I was growing up, but when the article introduced me to Laura Bridgeman I was intrigued. While reading about Laura I was even more intrigued by her teacher Dr. Samuel Gridley Howe […]
by Danica (Canada) Abbe Charles Michel de L’Epee devoted his life to helping others who he could barely even communicate with at first. He decided it was his job and duty to help the people that society didn’t think it worth helping. Not only did he open a school to help and teach these children, […]
by Kali Wright (New Jersey) Actually the opposite of sharing my knowledge; I need someone else’s. Is it okay for me to sign or practice in public? I’m hearing and very quickly learning ASL and Deaf culture. I have a Deaf friend that I see about once a month and I get so emotionally satisfied […]
by Peggy (Ohio) William Dummy Hoy. My parents are deaf and when I was little I met him at a Ohio School for the Deaf. Now that I teach ASL and I teach a unit on famous deaf people I can tell my students that I met him. Plus was at the DPN rally with […]
by Melissa (Columbia, MS) The person from Deaf History that I admire the most is Linda Bove. She frequently came into my living room via “Sesame Street”. She was kind and friendly and always ready to teach children new signs. To me, she seems like an old friend. On one episode of “Sesame Street”, Big […]
by Heather Jensen Scientists have found that the muscles in children’s fingers and hands are develop faster than the ones in their mouth and jaw, which has made baby sign language popular. Teaching your nonverbal child or child who struggles to communicate with sign language can be a great way to give them a voice […]
by Anonymous Thomas H. Gallaudet is a remarkable figure in deaf history. He went above and beyond to help Alice Cogswell by traveling to Europe to learn from deaf educators there. He saw the need for deaf people to have access to an education. He also recognized the benefit of sign language and realized that […]
by Nanette Kaufmann (Kissimmee, Florida) Award winning actress and advocate for the rights of persons with disabilities. Her honors representing the handicapped are many, including the President’s Distinguished Service-vice Award and the Eleanor Roosevelt Humanitarian Award. She and Helen Keller are the only women to receive the Public Service Award from the American Academy of […]
by Deanna Edmiston (Round Rock, TX, USA) I was really impressed to learn about the Gallaudet family. Thomas Hopkins Gallaudet’s contribution to deaf history comes in his founding of the American School for the Deaf in 1816, in Hartford, Connecticut. His son, Edward Minor Gallaudet, also made a huge contribution in deaf history as the […]
by Anonymous Geronimo Cardano is my favorite person in this article, because although he did not think of using sign, he still believed that deaf people could learn, and that there were methods of learning without being able to hear. I think he was the first step in recognizing that being deaf was not necessarily […]
Rosa Lee Timm “Ironic” by Crystal (Kansas) Please enable JavaScript I Can Only Imagine (in ASL) by Kevin Loveland Please enable JavaScript “American Honey” by Lady Antebellum, cover by Mike and Lane by Lane (Moorhead, MN USA) Please enable JavaScript Too Much Time on My Hands – Styx by soph1951 Please enable JavaScript This Is […]
by Aundrea (Oregon) My son refused to speak. We knew that he could as he had already said his first words and would babble as a smaller baby. For some reason he decided he didn’t want to talk. His Grandma taught him some basic signs using baby signing time. He could finally communicate with me!! […]
by Jay Hunsberger (Spring City, PA) I am a hearing person who first heard the name Gallaudet on Switched at Birth when Gallaudet University was mentioned all through out the TV Show. the Deaf President Now movement that happened at Gallaudet University is also mentioned. Ever since college I have been a history buff, so […]
by Debbie (Tahlequah, OK. USA) Juliette Gordon Low There are so many deaf, hard of hearing as well as hearing people that have made such great contributions to the deaf community and how they are interacted with and perceived by the world. Choosing just one favorite is very difficult. There are many ways of looking […]
by Alan (Sodus, NY USA) Yes Bell ! The deaf wife of Alexander Graham Bell. She met “Alec” as a 15 year old medically deaf student in his oralism school. And the story begins in MAKE A JOYFUL SOUND, the authorized biography of Mabel and Alec by Helen Elmira Waite. I fear this history has […]
by Anonymous With all the people that have made a huge impact on the world with the deaf culture it is hard to just pick one. But I was able to pick one out. It is William Ellsworth Hoy (Dummy Hoy). The reason I pick him is because before he went deaf he had a […]
by Anonymous David at Sun Valley – 1980 David Michalowski, profoundly deaf since birth, grew up in Chicago, IL. He competed at the United States Figure Skating National Championships from 1978 until 1982, including the 1980 Winter Olympic Trials, and at four international competitions from 1980 until 1982, including the Winter World University Games twice. […]
by Patricia Robles (Imperial, CA, USA) My favorite person from Deaf History is William “Dummy” Hoy. William “Dummy” Hoy lived from 1862 to 1961 (almost 100 years!). He was born hearing, but became deaf at age 3 due to meningitis. He was a great athlete and played baseball, making it all the way to the […]
by Aslin Mize (Springtown Tx USA) My favorite person that I read about was William “Dummy” Hoy. I have read about Helen Keller and on the history of Sign Language but, never about him and I found him very interesting. I think because just to think that all those signs that we use in baseball […]
by Addison (AL) I know first hand that this is a great way to communicate with babies, especially before they start forming words or even sounds! My mother taught me signs like more, food, sorry, please, thank you, all done, yes, and no before I even turned one. I still remember all these today. Even […]
by Anne (Richmond VA) Dr. McCullough She is the first Deaf psychologist to set up a counseling business. She makes counseling services accessible to Deaf people all over the states. Her Bio Dr. McCullough is a Deaf psychotherapist, licensed in Maryland and the District of Columbia. She holds certifications as an Approved Clinical Supervisor and […]
by Amber (Arizona, USA) I don’t feel like I know enough about Deaf History to have an actual favorite yet, but Ludwig van Beethoven has been in my thoughts a lot lately due to recently learning that he was black. It’s amazing to me that history can be manipulated so drastically that we could have […]
by Taylor (Italy) When I was little, my first language was Italian, after I turned 8, I started learning English. But I also lost senses as a reabction to this medication I was taking. I lost most of my eyesight, my sense of smell, and my hearing. But after a few months my mom got […]
by Rick Whited (Grand Terrace, California) I’m with others in noting that all of these individuals played a significant role in the history of sign language – some from a positive perspective, others from a negative. What more can be said of L’Epee and the Gallaudet’s? Even Bell thought he was progressing the education and […]
by Megan (Missouri) I’ve been teaching my baby for a week now food milk momma and dada and just doing it fun and helping her sign she has learned milk I was so proud I didn’t think she would Learn it for a while but I’m trying she trying to get food but when she […]
by Sophie Douglas (Farmington, CT, USA) I’m stuck between the hearing and the hard of hearing. Because I wasn’t diagnosed until recently at age 50, people think I’m too absorbed in dealing with it, just seeking attention. All I would like from people is to understand that this is a huge experience for me. It […]
by Anonymous Braam Jordaan Braam Jordaan was born profoundly Deaf to Deaf parents in Benoni, Johannesburg. He has achieved outstanding art recognition both locally and internationally. After graduating from TAS, he worked for several high-end film and animation companies on high-end projects for BMW, Coronation, Nampak, Mitsubishi, Yardley, Musica, World Wildlife Fund, Rabea Tea, American […]
by Elise (Big Bear City, CA) I am impressed most by Abbe de L’Epee and his effort to educate the deaf. After meeting two deaf sisters, he decided to dedicate his life to educating the deaf. After establishing the first free deaf school, he was able to learn all sorts of signs the students brought […]
by Alex (Buffalo) I’ve been learning sign language for four years now, and have just recently started considering myself OK at it. When I first met my deaf friend, Issac, I expected him to shut me out and look down on me for totally messing up everything I sign (Because I do). I’ve found it’s […]
by Alex (Buffalo) O.K., O.K., I admit, Sean Berdy isn’t exactly a historical figure… By any stretch of the imagination. But in 20 years he will be, and I’m going to count that. Sean Berdy is a deaf man who plays a deaf character on the show Switched at Birth. He was really the first […]
by Avril (South Africa) My strongest admiration goes out to those who teach deaf children and young adults – whether the teachers are themselves hearing or deaf. Of course, from this page, all credit goes to Abbe de L’Epee for the patience and openness which he showed in learning from his students so that he […]
by Mike Kahler (Plattsmouth) My father and my son are both deaf. Neither of them sign they both read lips. My father has no assistance devises my son has a cochlear implant. I have discussed many times I would like all 3 of us to learn ASL. I think it would open a whole new […]
by Shira (Portland, Oregon) In addition to the wonderful resources on this page and those listed above as references, I wanted to let everybody know that there is a webcast available for those of you who are looking for a fully comprehensive (yet time efficient) way to learn how to use sign language with your […]
by Bailey Ryan (Palm Beach, Florida) My favorite person in deaf history by far is William Stokoe. Before I had read this article, Hellen Keller was my favorite, because she was the only deaf person I knew about. But when I heard about William Stokoe, I quickly changed my mind. His proof that American Sign […]
by Karrina (America) I would have to say William “Dummy” Hoy is my favorite because he showed a lot of Deaf power. He became deaf at the age of 3 because of meningitis. He grew up and graduated from Ohio State School for the Deaf as valedictorian. He started baseball as just a fun thing […]
by Anonymous My favorite person in deaf history is Laurent Clerc. He was not given an education for the first eleven or twelve years of his life. He stayed at home taking care of the animals, while others his age were going to school getting an education. Many people thought that deaf people could not […]
by Nena (Indianapolis) I have had hearing issues for most of my life. I’ve had multiple ear infections since I was a week old. I lost count on how many times I’ve had perforated eardrums. I’ve had doctors ask me if I was near an explosion. Growing up, I would either speak too loud or […]
by Anonymous Effort means the world to those of us who have English communication issues! I have a somewhat severe stutter. I can’t get many words out, I can’t say my own name. It got to the point where I wasn’t communicating with anyone because no one had the patience to deal with my stutter. […]
by Nicki B (Wisconsin) I can’t really choose one to identify with. There are so many people who made contributions to sign language becoming what it is today. People that were blessed with hearing took it upon themselves to learn ASL and want to communicate with deaf people. I find that amazing. These people in […]
by Allison Liu (Colorado) I first heard of William “Dummy” Hoy on a show called Switched at Birth. Daphne, one of the deaf characters, during the first all ASL show ever aired on television, was talking to her friends about “drawing inspiration from all the deaf people who had paved the road before them.” She […]
by Nicki (Canada) After reading this article, as well as the other available ones on this site and a few from another ASL book I am reading I have come to the conclusion that I can’t choose one person in deaf history as my favourite. I have to say that they all have their goods […]
by Laura KOschuk (Florida, United States) I teach American Sign Language Privately and tutor it at a state college. I lost my hearing several years ago. I have met with a multitude of responses to me in my deaf community. Some feel I am not truly Deaf because I did not grow up Deaf. Others […]
by Lynn (Clearwater, FL, USA) Up until now, the only deaf (famous) people I was really familiar with was Helen Keller. Most of us had heard her story and found her to be inspiring. Through the years I’ve had deaf students in my classroom, hard of hearing friends, and I’m hard of hearing. But I’ve […]
by Amber Howard (Los Angles, CA) I’d have to say that after reading this article, Abbe Charles Michel de L’Epee is my favorite figure in Deaf history. He literally and figuratively opened the door for so many that society had written off. With all of the options available to us today, it’s hard to imagine […]
by Janiece (Tennessee) My favorite people are those deaf individuals that stood up at Gallaudet and demanded a Deaf president. They risked their freedom, their future, and their reputation for what they believed in. I feel it is inspiring to learn about a group of people who pull together to do the hard, but right […]
by Amber Waite (Utah, US) These videos have been a great way to help both my deaf and hearing children learn signs. It’s been great to help my hearing children to communicate with their sister and also to help my deaf daughter to be able to identify more things through sign. The signs are presented […]
by Caitlin (El Paso, Tx, USA) The person I admire the most from deaf history is Thomas Hopkins Gallaudet. The reason for this is the great impact he had on the deaf people in America. Because of his interest in Alice Cogswell, Gallaudet traveled to Europe and learned from the most knowledgeable people in the […]
by Bethany (Louisville, KY) My favorite person from Deaf history is William Stokoe, because he proved in his dissertation that ASL is a genuine language with unique syntax and grammar. I am not deaf, but I believe that Deaf people should be allowed to use sign language. Because of that, I would have to say […]
by Hannah (Indiana) Lou has been an inspiration to many deaf, he played the Hulk in the original series, he also appeared in “I love you, Man” and appeared as himself in “The King of Queens” and also performed in Hercules. Lou was also a body builder and worked closely with former governor of California, […]
by Kristyn Murray (Houston, TX) Joseph Henry Sharp was one of the founding members of the Taos Society of Artists, a group that produced some of the most significant artwork in American history. Born in 1859, he became Deaf after an incident where he almost drowned in a river at the age of 12. By […]
by Julie (USA) After reading this article, I decided to look into the life of William Stokoe because the work he did for Gallaudet as well as the development of American Sign Language interested me. I believe that he played an integral part in growing the deaf community and working to make American Sign Language […]
by Cliona (Canada) The Likeness of 9 year-old Alice Cogswell Despite a short life, Alice Cogswell led a life well-lived. I admire her greatly because she did not allow society to tell her that being deaf in the 1820’s somehow made you less than human. Alice was born in 1805, and contracted “spotted fever” (most […]
by Ashleigh Boone (Mississippi) I saw this the other day and it bothered me. I saw a deaf man and a hearing man trying to communicate and the hearing man was trying to do ASL. But the deaf man didn’t understand what he was trying to say and asked him to repeat this time slower […]
by Arianna Belle (USA) I am hard of hearing in a hearing world. I lost 80% of my hearing by age 4 due to many untreated ear infections and cannot hear at all in my right ear now in my mid 20s without a hearing aid. Being that I grew up in a hearing world, […]
by Chey I am a hard of hearing teen living in a hearing world. I have one fully functioning ear, while my other eardrum is damaged from tubes and surgeries. It still can be difficult for me however to communicate with hearing people. I would like to offer some do’s and don’ts based purely on […]
by Sara Huang (Taipei, Taiwan) I have read a lot about the oppression of the Deaf, but I really appreciate people who have embraced Deaf culture and have a passion for studying the social fabric of Deaf people in other countries. Joel Barish has traveled the globe and has been filmed with Deaf people from […]
by KS (USA) One of my favorite people in Deaf history is William Stokoe because when I read about him I felt a sense of relief and triumph that someone in recent history was able to make people, especially those in the academic world, wake up and notice the legitimacy of the Deaf culture and […]
by Anonymous (TX) I chose Dr. Thomas Hopkins Gallaudet and Alice Cogswell as my favorite people from Deaf history. Why did I chose both instead of just one? Well the answer is simple really. Gallaudet made such a huge impact in Deaf history, but would this ever of really took off without Alice there to […]
by Noelle (Santa Ana, CA) In learning about the history of American Sign Language, it is hard to pick a favorite historical figure related to deaf history. I have always been interested in ASL and the deaf community, and it wasn’t until recently that I decided to act upon this life-long passion. I also love […]
by Mary Lovik (Lansing, MI) I’ve chosen Edward Miner Gallaudet as my favorite person from Deaf History because he founded Gallaudet University. I have had the pleasure of visiting Gallaudet several times over the past few years because my daughter got her Master’s Degree in ASL interpreting there, and worked there for a year before […]
by Rebecca Wenger (PA, US) A Religious ASL dictionary? Really? Yep. As the front cover claims, Elaine Costello’s Religious Signing is “the first and only interdenominational guide to Religious Signing”. Look for the most recently revised and updated version, published in 2009. It contains a generous introduction that covers topics which include the influence of […]
by Virginia I wanted to say that sometimes people are just plain rude in both speaking and ASL. I am hearing, but am very familiar with being excluded in conversations because I am highly logical (and I am looking to get diagnosed with autism) and when I don’t get or understand something sometimes people just […]
by Michael S. (New York) Jerry and George attempting to hide their lips from Laura (Matlin) Reading about all the famous Deaf people, I found that I was unaware of most of the more influential in Deaf History. However, immediately Marlee Matlin came to my mind. It was not from her award winning performance in […]
by Anonymous Most teachers already know this one. In fact, I am sure I learned it when I was a newbie student myself. 1. Set up the board, powerpoint, overhead, etc. (whatever you got) just like a hangman word. 2. No one, not even the instructor, is allowed to use their voice. 3. Students raise […]
by Anonymous (August 13, 1861 – March 12, 1937) Was a former president of National Association of the Deaf of the United States and was one of the first to film American Sign Language. Following his graduation from Gallaudet (Columbia) in 1884, he began to work as teacher at the Maryland School for the Deaf. […]
by Megan (Arizona) My favorite person from deaf history would probably be Geronimo Cardano because he was the first person to recognize that just because a person was deaf didn’t mean that they were also incapable of learning. Before this discovery, deaf people were written off as stupid and (this breaks my heart) “non-persons” because […]
by Mieko (New Albany, IN) I have to say that Geronimo Cardano is my favorite person from Deaf History at this point. The reason I chose him is because from Aristotle, one of the greats, all the way to his time, no one had taken a stand to step outside the “box”. To me that […]
by Carspyder As a parent of two hearing children, I am amazed at what I learn from them. I chose Geronimo Cardano as my favorite. As a busy physician having seen and heard all that children who are deaf can not learn, he chose to ignore it. He must have spent much time with his […]
by Abigail Endsley (Houtson, TX, United States of America) Unfortunately, I feel almost materialistic for deciding that Heather Whitestone is my favorite person mentioned on this page. Although, my choice was not made simply because she was beautiful and successful. No, my choice was made because of her attitude and humility. Heather not only did […]
by Lexi (Las Vegas) There are so many inspirations in this world, but deaf people inspire me the most. I see deaf people as equals, but much more courageous. The things they overcome just amazes me. Helen Keller surprises me. I can’t imagine being neither deaf nor blind and she was both. And graduating college! […]
by Deanna Basile (Fairbanks, Alaska) I learned this game at a Silent Weekend when I was in the interpreter program. Lots of fun! Have the class get into groups of 2 or 3, and hand each group a different Hand Shape card (I photocopied hand shapes from a book and cut them out, but there […]
by Tamra Goleman (Ashford University) Can we communicate effectively with one another without the use of speaking or hearing the spoken words of another person or gain knowledge about a different language without understanding their culture? People who are deaf have a different way of communicating and have their own language that differs from hearing […]
by John A. Scott (Vidor, TX United States) Heather Whitestone is my favorite person from deaf history simply because she really did prove, just like Beethoven, that a deaf person can in fact pull things off easily if given a chance. For instance, according to doctors, I have been hearing impaired since the day I […]
by Amber Waite (Utah, US) This video stars Linda Bove, who has been on Sesame Street many times. She is a deaf actress and she says in the introduction to the video that as a child she always wanted a story signed to her. So she wants to accomplish that in the video. I love […]
by Anonymous (Fullerton, CA, USA) It’s okay to help someone you know who is Deaf if they ask for your help. However, if they do not ask, do not interfere. When my fiance and I go out to a restaurant, I let him order for himself. The waiter may look at the hearing person for […]
By Anonymous Author of What’s that Pig Outdoors? and other novels based on the Upper Peninsula of Michigan locales. Deaf all his life, blogger, professional editor and writer for Chicago newspaper, humorist. Webmaster Comments: Thank you so much for adding Henry Kisor to this list! I thought I might add a little bit more information […]
by Janeel Hew (Molokai, Hawaii) Babies have been doing things with their hands even before they were born. (Moms you know what I’m talking about) When I was getting my son’s room decorated, I put up two alphabet posters. One with the letters and objects, (A apple) the other was in sign language. I hung […]
by Olivia (USA) This is a difficult choice, who is MY favorite. They are all amazing people, who have done so much to help the deaf and learn about the deaf, and create sign language, and make sign language what it is today. Not to mention, help us hearing ones, learn of the deaf and […]
by Carol (White Cloud, MI ) I am not sure I could pick one person that is a favorite at this time. I have already learned so many interesting things from deaf history that are not only educational, but shocking. As a full hearing person, I was taught that Helen Keller was the first deaf […]
by Dorrie (MA) Well, I have read the Deaf History part, as suggested, before writing this. I have even read a few of the other posts to see who people have picked. I am still at a loss. I know that I should read more on all of the historical figures, and I will. But, […]
by Anonymous All of the individuals in this article are all important. Without them, sign language, and potentially the deaf society wouldn’t be the way that it is today. I only have great appreciation for the history and culture that they have provided and encouraged. I was completely ignorant to this culture in the deaf […]
by Terri (McHenry, IL, USA) Undeniably, William Stokoe had a major impact on Sign Language as we know it today. Mr. Stokoe was instrumental in bringing about legislation within the US government to formally acknowledge sign language as a complete and separate language, as well as a culture, rather than just a subset of any/all […]
by Anonymous Village on Taro River by Oreste Carpi I am not deaf, but have been allowed the chance to come across this amazing language, and have started learning it at my school. However I never really took the time to analyze the culture, or the people who’ve founded it. It’s amazing how far these […]
by Raquel Allende-Herbert (Victorville, CA USA) My favorite deaf person from history could have been one of many. There were so many who had contributed to American Sign Language, to sports and to entertainment. I had to choose Laura Redden Searing to write about. I was drawn to her initially because she shares my mother’s […]
by Megan Arhart (USA) I was a fifth-grader couple years ago. The kids in my old classroom teased me about my hearing loss. It hurts my feelings about myself, but Ms. Lisa* took care of them. She helped me out by just doing that and tell me if they do it again, I just go […]
by Jodi J (Parsons, KS, USA) Ms. Low (center) with two Girl Scouts Perhaps no greater tribute can be said than she is not remembered as a “deaf person who” but rather as an outgoing and exciting example of what all people should strive for and that is to be a person of conviction. Ms. […]
by Karen Arnold (Hamilton, IN USA) The persons that I feel contributed most to the advancement of communication with and for the Deaf is GOD because he gave the Deaf, their desire to express themselves and to be understood.As a hearing person, I learned to express myself through hearing others talk. For most people (hearing) […]
by Jorie Pipes (Bloomington, CA) Many people know of the life and achievements of a woman named Helen Keller who defied the odds that were stacked against her. She accomplished what the world viewed as impossible when she graduated from college with honors. Truly she must have been an incredible influence on the future lives […]
by Nicole Tucker (Manchester NH) Laura Birdgman was born on December, 21, 1892 to a hard working farm family. At the age of two her and her family became very ill with Scarlet fever. This left her sightless, smell-less, and almost tasteless. Growing up she liked to mimic her mother and help her with house […]
by JoEllen Foster (Tyler, Texas USA) Laura Bridgman Laura Bridgman is my favorite person from deaf history. She is my favorite person because she did something no one else had never done before her. She could not take information from former deaf-blind graduates. Laura had to figure out the best way to learn and study […]
by Roberta Cooke (PA, US) I have just begun learning American Sign Language but I have found that The American Sign Language Phrase Book by Lou Fant and illustrated by Betty G. Miller (published by Contemporary Books), to be a fun and useful book. The book includes chapters such as: Everyday Expressions, Signing and Deafness, […]
by Lyndee (Missouri) My favorite person from Deaf History would have to be Thomas Hopkins Gallaudet. While I find much of Deaf History intriguing, I am particularly interested in this man. He was essentially the first Deaf Educator in the United States. He was breaking new ground for all future Deaf Educators. I am also […]
by Alex Bryant (Chicago, IL, USA) I picked Geronimo Cardano because without him it would not even be possible for anyone else to improve on or even establish ASL. He was the one who decided that it wasn’t necessary for you to be able to hear in order to learn. Just because you have a […]
by Janeel Hew (Hawaii) Understanding the past, helps us to embrace the present. Finally an online class, that teaches you that learning ASL means more than knowing how to bend your fingers. We miss the colors of the rainbow when we are only able to see the black and white. If you are thinking about […]
by Kamalakannan (India) Thomas Alva Edison Another famous deaf person is Thomas Alva Edison who was born on February 11, 1847. He was an American scientist, inventor, and businessman. However, many people don’t know that Edison had a hearing loss since childhood and reportedly lost more of his hearing and became technically deaf in his […]
by Anonymous (California) While Leroy Colombo was not born deaf, he became deaf at the age of seven and went on to become an amazing lifeguard, who saved a total of 907 lives. At the time that he became deaf, he also lost the ability to walk. He was told he would never walk again, […]
by Cheri Witmer (Anaconda, MT) This may not be my favorite person, and as little as I have read on deaf history I don’t feel like I can pick just one, so these are just a few of my thoughts…Ever since I was taught the alphabet in sign language I fell in love with it. […]
by Brenda Dawe, NAD IV interpreter and ASL instructor, Kirtland CC (Roscommon, MI) Brenda the Bridge Lou Fant, CODA, is my favorite historical figure. Unlike Stokoe, he could sign, had a Deaf heart and spent his life making services for the Deaf include interpreters. He was instrumental in establishing the Registry of Interpreters of the […]
by April Cook (Salt Lake City, UT. United States) My favorite people from deaf history are Marlee Matlin and Linda Bove. Marlee Matlin has shown us that being deaf is not a disability. She has accomplished many things in her life and still continues to inspire me. She has the courage to defeat all of […]
by Dawn Schulz (Las Vegas) My favorite deaf person, by far, is Marlee Matlin — the youngest woman to ever win an Academy Award for Best Leading Actress (she won at age 21!) Her role in “Children of a Lesser God” was brilliant. She was discovered through children’s theatre, and throughout her lifetime has appeared […]
by John (Pensacola, FL USA) My wife and I learned about the possibility of teaching your baby sign language early in her third trimester of our first son. To admit, we were a little skeptical at first. We checked out a book at our local public library to study on it. When our son was […]
by Janeel Hew (Hawaii) Hands that speak all I needed to hear. In history, time spans endlessly. I, on the other hand, need go back only 40 years to find my favorite person of Deaf Culture in my life. I wish that I could tell you his name, but I never knew it. I did […]
by Amanda (Greenville, SC) It was not until I read this history lesson that I realized how difficult is must have been growing up deaf. I have been hearing all my life, but I fell in love with a hearing impaired boy in high school. We dated for five years and then married. I knew […]
by Lisa Ann (Killeen, Texas) I have always been interested in sign language and was excited to find out more about how to sign, as well as, the history of its development. I was amazed at how little I knew and realized I had not heard of half of these remarkable people in all the […]
by Janeel Hew (Molokai, Hawaii) In the silence of the night I do my best thinking and creating. The noise of the world is a distraction at times. The wisdom from within is most active for me in the calm silence. When we go into the Library; we see a sign that asks us to […]
by Maggie (Pasadena, Md) I would have to say that my favorite person is my daughter. I was her teacher for the past twelve years and I must say that she was a very good student. She took her schooling to heart and learned everything I taught her. Even though I wasn’t the greatest teacher, […]
by Grace (Canada) Malibu Coast Spring by Granville Redmond My favorite deaf historical figure is Granville Redmond. His struggle to be accepted by the common man is fairly touching, and his paintings are simply out of this world! Throughout his life, he accomplished much more than most do. Aside from creating a wealth of inspiring, […]
by Anonymous I work at a school where there are a few students who cannot hear at all. The school where I was for many years had a couple of children and parents who communicated through some sign language. Some made audible sounds. The ones at my school now do not speak at all. They […]
by Michelle Jay (from Start ASL) Laurent Clerc Hello everyone, I’ll start off this discussion :). My favorite person from the history of sign language is Laurent Clerc. Laurent Clerc was the first deaf teacher of the deaf in America. He was also among the first of these educators in the world and has been […]
by Julieann (La Carlota City, Philippines) After reading the article, I fell in love with what Abbe de L’Epee had done for the world of the deaf people. Creating the first free school for the deaf was a huge step. It is greatly beneficial to those who have less money. Having an education for free […]
by Anonymous During a recent volunteering event with the Special Olympics I ended up small talking with one of the competitors who was not hard of hearing or deaf, but simply unable to speak because of a problem unrelated to hearing. He used a lot of simple ASL with some short sounds to get his […]
by Tiffany (Pinon Hills CA USA) I came to be on this site because my nephew decided that he wanted to learn ASL. We are both martial arts instructors and plan on opening a school soon. A family came in and their son was totally deaf but wanted to learn karate and there was no […]
by Rebeca (Redding, Ca.) I do not find Alexander Graham Bell to be inspirational or admirable in this case, and yet I must say he is my favorite historical figure. Mr. Bell’s futile attempts to make the deaf community conform was condescending and ignorant. His interest in “helping” the deaf of his time was, in […]
by Melody (Howe, IN) As a young woman, I knew there were deaf people out there. I just never understood how different things were for them until I had my oldest daughter. She was born with her hearing but it was never what the doctors said it should be. At a year old, she went […]
by Robyn Bell (Toledo, WA USA) As a young man L’Epee had certain expectations given to him by the people around him. His father was a well-know architect and probably wanted a great many things from his son. L’Epee decided to study theology. Not a great career choice, but at least something with honor. The […]
by Griselle Merced (Wichita Falls, TX ) I have to say that many of them deserve a recognition, but I will say that William Stokoe took it to the next level, fighting for the rights of the Deaf Community letting the hearing world know like other countries have their own language Deaf people have their […]
by Joseph Heenan (Frankston, Australia) The 48 year old Australian named Robert Hoskin is a well-known deaf filmmaker who has won several film awards from his short films shot in 35mm film format intended for festival screening some years ago. He has expertised in 35mm film making activities for nearly 20 years out of his […]
by Anonymous Rodger Young was a deaf man who faked his Army hearing test in World War II. He won a Posthumous Medal of Honor in the Soloman Islands. Rodger Young was a member of the United States National Guard with the rank of sergeant. However, before going to war in World War II, he […]
by Anonymous My favorite deaf person would have to be William Stokoe. The reason for this is that if he had not brought the importance of American Sign Language to the public then they might still be oppressed. I have several deaf family and have watched them communicate in the community and how people perceive […]
by Debra Stephens (Quebec, Canada) I really like this booklet it is small, 4 x 9 inches and 25 pages long. It offers over 200 signs and is not very large to take along with me in the car or on the bus. Its’ mission is communication. It offers easy to learn illustrated signs of […]
by Amber Waite (Utah, US) This book was recommended as the manual for my American Sign Language class at the School for the Deaf in St. George Utah. I really appreciate the vocabulary of the book, but even more I feel that the grammatical guide has been the most helpful in guiding me as I […]
by sMother (New York, USA) I am the hearing Mother of a Deaf daughter. She was born Deaf because of Usher Syndrome. I thought it would be hard to raise and teach a Deaf child, but she has taught me so much about a culture I thought was sad and bleak. WOW was I wrong! […]
by Bridget P. (Weiser, ID USA) Growing up I was a victim of oralism or audism. The doctors and specialists told my mother not to put me in deaf school or for ASL to be taught, rather I was to learn how to speak correctly and read lips. I was mainstreamed in public school and […]
by Rebecca Wenger (PA, US) To those learning American Sign Language, it can never hurt to have several ASL dictionaries. In doing so, you can confirm signs, examine different forms of a sign, and recognize the slight tweaks that different states may place on a sign. This dictionary is one that you should defiantly consider […]
by Brenda Dawe (Michigan) SIGNO is a sign language game like Bingo except that the headings are handshapes. I have a template which students take and fill in with 5 handshapes (of the 11 basic ones I also include in separate handout). The 25 spaces (no free spots) are then filled in with signs under […]
by Samantha (Vermont) I do not believe Helen Keller is the most important person in Deaf History, but I do believe she inspired me the most. I have learned quite a bit about Helen Keller since I was first introduced to her life in the fifth grade. I have glasses, and I am hard of […]
by Martin Here are some do’s and don’ts I’d like to add! Do’s:– Be patient with communication. – If a Deaf person does not understand you, try again to convey your message, but do not dismiss them. – Be friendly.Don’ts:– Don’t assume deaf people are not intelligent.– Don’t assume all deaf people know ASL.– Do […]
by Anonymous I have to say that Abbe de L’Epee is my favorite person from the history of sign language because he is a first timer. I know how hard it is to introduce something new to a group of people and it takes guts. Not many people would dare to go against the current. […]
by Cheryl (Kelowna, B.C. Canada) As a hearing person just discovering the wonder and beauty of ASL and the incredible community of people that use it, I am blown away that this part of history wasn’t in the school text books. The culture we all live in and the history we all share is made […]
by Christi (Charleston, WV) This article was very interesting to read. I would have to say my favorite person is Abbe de L’Epee. In reading his story I can see that he truly was a follower of Christ. Christ is our example and Christ became a servant to mankind and gave his life that we […]
by Anonymous He is not my favorite. He is the one most interesting to me. He is interesting because he had a deaf parent, married a deaf individual, and had deaf children yet he was so against the development of the deaf community. I often wonder why he spent his whole life fighting to get […]
by David (Switzerland) ASL princess I started learning ASL via the internet, and especially via the Start-American-Sign-Language page when my daughter was about six months old. I started signing to my daughter as soon as I had memorized the first signs, and then I kept repeating them to her whenever I got a chance. I […]
by Roberta Cooke (PA, US) Martin L.A. Sternberg’s, American Sign Language Dictionary is an excellent resource. The revised edition, copyrighted in 1998 and published by Harper Perennial (Harper Collins Publishers, Inc.) states that it contains over 1,500 new illustrations. I recently started studying ASL and have thoroughly enjoyed every minute and I wanted to purchase […]
by Robin Brenner (Alaska, US) I really enjoy using this DVD for working on receptive skills. I think it’s good for anyone who’s learning ASL or wanting to become an interpreter. It’s really helpful because it’s broken down into chapters that are easy to follow at your own pace. There are many useful activities to […]
by Leela Miller (U.S.A) The deaf history of the world is very interesting on its own. I enjoyed reading about both French and American deaf history. I disagree strongly with oralism. It’s very rude for people to say that just because you can’t hear and can’t communicate using speech means you should be denied rights […]
by Nancy Reynolds (Denton, Md, USA) It may seem strange but these were the children that inspired others to realize how creative and intelligent the deaf really are. They not only devised the signs they could use to communicate but taught others to understand. In reading through deaf history I was amazed at how this […]
by Sue (Connecticut) In my inept attempt to answer this question, I find myself so ignorant of Deaf history and culture and am amazed how little is taught in our schools. That being said, I am thrilled at the opportunity to now learn all I can on the subject and during this time, I am […]
by Christie Busselle (Missouri) “The Miracle Worker” has always been one of my favorite movies. Even when Melissa Gilbert did the remake of it with Patty Duke switching from Helen’s role to Anne’s role. In both movies I felt Anne’s character was the star. She was a woman who, despite her handicap, showed a determination […]
by Candy Gatlin (Santa Rosa CA. USA.) My oldest is dislexic, a teacher taught her the alphabet in ASL, she learned how to spell right, knew the difference between letters, was feeling good about herself and about learning. We moved, she changed schools, second school said she could not use her hands to spell words […]
by Lori Reeve (Rodney, MI) As a teacher and Christ-follower myself, I relate well with Thomas Hopkins Gallaudet (1787-1851) who was a social reformer, Congregationalist minister and teacher at heart. Since there were no schools for the Deaf in America at that time, Deaf children from wealthy families were often sent away to special schools […]
by Patricia (Salt Lake City, UT, USA) William Hoy was a very bright man. After completing his high school education, he set up a shoe repair shop and played baseball on the weekends. He was so talented and played so intelligently that he progressed to playing professionally, even in Major League Baseball. He established a […]
by Melissa Gschwend (Benson, AZ USA) I can’t say for sure that I have a favorite person from Deaf History. So many people played such wonderful roles in the support and progress of the Deaf. I remember well the Deaf lady that won the Miss America Pageant. I have watched the Helen Keller movie and […]
by Sherry (Melbourne, Florida) When my daughter, now 6, was about 9 months, all she did was whine and cry for things. I was taking a basic signing class at our local library and the teacher suggested I teach her to sign. I told this to my husband and we decided to try it. we […]
by E-L-I-E (Indiana, USA) I cannot believe how much I am learning about the Deaf Culture. Every chapter is fascinating because I had no idea how much there was to learn. I had no idea how much I didn’t know! My favorite person is Thomas H Gallaudet because he was the one who broke through […]
by Anna (Evansville, IN) I purchased a book about ASL before my boy was born. I started reading it when he was a month old and it encouraged me to sign to get into the habit. So I began signing milk and diaper at 2 months old because he was perpetually hungry and hated being […]
by Amanda C. (Modesto, ca, usa) I’d have to say that my favorite person that I have been introduced to has to be William Hoy, the baseball player. I myself do not know any deaf people or have much interaction with many people in my community that are deaf. However I do work for a […]
by An anonymous interpreter in Texas I’m an interpreter at a University. CARDINAL RULE 1: I’M NOT HERE. DON’T TALK TO ME, talk to my client. “Tell her/ask him” is really annoying for the interpreter and the Deaf client. And talk DIRECTLY to them. Don’t look at me, look at THEM. Don’t ask the interpreter […]
by Brenda Dawe (Michigan) Divide group into 3 and line up right angle to blackboard Vocab cards (scattered upside down on table at left of Line 1) are selected in turns, signed to front person in group 2 who then writes the word on the board. When word is written, front person in line 3 […]
by Dj (USA) People in general can be mean. People speak kinda loud just because I wear hearing aids. They say, Can you hear me? When a person walks up to me they ask, Are you deaf? It is just so rude. I tell them I’m deaf but not all the way. I can’t hear […]
by Coco (Texas) In our stream-line schools today in America we virtually do not learn anything of deaf history. We learn of wars and slavery and discoveries, but not about deaf people. As a hearing person, I think the only deaf person I had ever heard of in school was Helen Keller. Her story was […]
by CCR (PR) This is an unfair question because Deaf History has too many great persons to only choose one. If I had to choose it would be a tie between Pedro Ponce de Leon, Juan Pablo de Bonet and Abbe Charles Michel de L’Epee. I believe these inspiring individuals took it upon themselves to […]
by Ivory Henson (Arizona, US) As with the Signing Time DVD Series, the Baby Signing Time DVD Series is a great way to introduce american sign language to your little ones. These DVDs have fun songs and a lot of colorful images of babies and children playing that babies and toddlers love. They showcase signs […]
by Monique Fournier-Lavoie (Whitefish, ON Canada) After having carefully read and reread Step Three in The ASL Student’s Essential Guide To Learning American Sign Language And Getting Involved In The Deaf Community, I took an immediate interest in the work and dedication of William C. Stokoe Jr. (1919-2000) I went on to further educate myself […]
by Andrew (Florida) It makes me sad when I see or hear about others mistreating the deaf. It shocks me to know that there was a time that they were not accepted. However, it warms my heart to see a plethora of people making their mark for deaf people; some of them even for the […]
by Keith Boepple (Arlington, TX) A picture of Dummy Hoy My favorite historical figure from Deaf History is one of the least known – even in his own field. His name is William Ellsworth Hoy. He was often called “Dummy” Hoy. He is the first Deaf Person to have a successful career in Major League […]
by Emma Hill (Seaside Oregon) It was so neat to read about William Hoy. I hadn’t known about him until reading this account of deaf history, which is really well written by the way. It was short, but so full of pertinent information. I think you’re absolutely right, it is amazing that he’s not better […]
by Harsh Vardhan (Bengaluru,Karnataka,India) Hi, I am Mrs. Nehal Harsh Vardhan, and I am a resident of INDIA. I have a baby girl, her name is Aanya. She is just seven months old and believe me she is an angel. Initially I was having lot of problems understanding her signs, because she was my first […]
by Jude Mitchell (Apple Valley, CA U.S.A.) I actually have three favorites. The first is Ludwig Von Beethoven. He developed his own method of composing music even though he was deaf. By placing his cheek on the top of the piano while he played, he could actually feel the sound. My second is Marlee Matlin. […]
by Adam B. (United States) A portrait by Joseph Karl Stieler, 1820 For me, it is extremely hard to decide between Ludwig Van Beethoven and Helen Keller. Honestly, my favorite *historical* figure is Beethoven. Beethoven is very influential and overall impressive in the things he did. Around age 41 (approximate), he was almost completely deaf. […]
by Belinda Well, I really don’t have a favorite person from deaf history. I do love reading about deaf history and all they have gone through. Each story about each person is amazing to me. I went to a church many years ago where the pastor’s wife taught some beginning ASL classes. ASL is so […]
By Anonymous Bob Hiltermann Founder of Deaf West Theater (Fountain Theater) in North Hollywood California. All My Children, Children of a Lesser God, Cold Case. Drummer for the only Deaf Band Beethoven’s Nightmare. Teacher of American Sign Language in Mission Hills California. Actor as himself in documentary movie – Through Deaf Eyes. Actor as himself […]
by Brenda Dawe (Michigan) One important thing to know about Deaf culture is that no matter how long, nor how close a hearing person is involved with the Deaf, he/she will always be an “Inside-outsider.” Many mainstreamed deaf people who later find their way to the cultural community circle feel the same way. It’s all […]
by Candace (South Carolina, USA) I am a mother of a five year old nonverbal little girl with cerebral palsy. We have struggled for years, trying everything to help her with communication. I was very interested in her learning sign language but she never could pick it up. With help from therapists and books, I […]
by Sean (VA) It is actually hard to pick just one because all of them played important roles. But if I had to pick just one I would pick Abbe de L’Epee because he saw a need and put his all into trying to help. A lot of us today see many people in need […]
by Greta D’Amico (Auburn, CA, USA) I would have to say that there are three categories of people that really stand out to me as heroes for the Deaf. First, those dedicated souls who didn’t give up on their deaf students. I am especially impressed with Dr. Samuel Gridley Howe, who was so determined to […]
by Heather (Liberty, MO, USA) I know that Alexander Graham Bell is a very controversial figure in Deaf culture, understandably. I can also see how his invention isolated an already oppressed people group–the entire deaf community for many years. However, I think it is amazing how his invention has come full-circle. Without the invention of […]
by John W Dudley (Corpus Christi TX) Born 1933 on a black land farm near Penelope Texas raised by Deaf Grandparents and grew up with deaf siblings, family and friends. Most of whom attended The State School for the Deaf in Austin Texas. Who is my favorite – WOW! But one I will always remember […]
by Mrs. Shannen L. Heyman (Louisville, KY, United States) I was so pleased to find this website! I have an aunt that is hearing impaired and I wanted my children to be able to communicate with her. I have taken an interest in educating my children in other languages and this one is very important […]
by Annie (plattsmouth nebraska usa) I believe the person I admire most in the history of the deaf would have to be a person who was not deaf at all but a person who had a tremendous impact on a persons life who was deaf and on many who are not deaf, Anne Sullivan. From […]
by Peggy B. (Los Angeles, Calif.) Before reading your piece on deaf history, I didn’t know there were so many important/famous deaf people. Marlee Matlin is the only deaf person that I could remember and admire. She has so much courage to be out in the spotlight. I admire her very much. I see her […]
by Holly (UK) Here is a man that went to great lengths to educate a child that was not even his own. A child that most people would not have taken the time to bother with as it would have been difficult to communicate with her. How did he know she was bright? He must […]
by Shannon (West Columbia, SC, USA) In order for a person to be a significant role in history, they really need to be known. Someone like Helen Keller gets the credit for being the first deaf/blind person because that’s who we have heard about. She made an impact by “getting heard” by the population. (pardon […]
by Rebecca Brown (Hudson Ohio USA) Geronimo Cardano Geronimo Cardano was my fave because he was the first to realize that deaf people are just as smart as hearing they just cant hear. I think he should have gotten more credit because he worked with his son and made the discovery. I also just thought […]
by Jesse-Linn Masters (Chicago, IL) If you haven’t seen “What the bleep do we know” stop reading this and go watch it right now. This incredible movie, staring Marlee Matlin may not be “Children of a Lesser God” or any of Matlin’s more well known roles, but it was the first I saw her in […]
by Maggie Walker (Nashville, TN, USA) The person I find most interesting in ASL history is Heather Whitestone. Women in general are so often put down because of looks, body figures, and other nonsense. It’s even worse for deaf women. Not only do they already have all the regular weight from society on their shoulders, […]
by Lois Diamond (Sacramento, CA) My favorite was Frederick Schreiber, former President of the NAD. He was a simple man with a simple ego and his humble leadership resulted in many Deaf organizations being established as well as Deaf taking on leadership from his example. Today we have many leaders with big egos in search […]
by Debbie I am taking intro to sign in school and we play a few sign language games that are a lot of fun. Memory – At the beginning of the game everyone draws a few (3 or 4) cards from a deck of vocab word cards. Person one signs their word, then person two […]
by Diane Bell (Arkansas, USA) I am a hearing mother of one hearing and one hearing-impaired child. Both are exceptional boys! When my hearing son married, his first child was a beautiful little girl. She is hearing but had a very real love for her hearing-impaired Uncle. She also liked to follow Grandma around the […]
by Becca (Paraguay, South America ) My favorite person in the history of deaf education is Thomas Hopkins Gallaudet. What I admire most about him was the sacrifice he made for one little girl. I was impressed that he was interested in her life enough to go all the way to Europe to learn the […]
by Rebecca Wenger (PA, US) “Deaf kids are just as smart as hearing kids. With sign language, deaf kids can do anything.” Said by Lynn Spradley. While she can say that now, it was a long journey in getting there. Deaf Like Me is written in a story form that sweeps you into the traumatic […]
by Jenna (WA) Honestly, I don’t think I could choose one person to be my favorite of all Deaf people. I mean, after all, the reason we have Deaf History is because of the people. Before studying up on Deaf History, I never knew how many people were subject to the great changes made by […]
by Nancy I love sign language. I am hard of hearing and a student of ASL. I can sign fairly well and love to do it but find when I am around deaf people I am afraid to sign because they correct me constantly and even laugh at me. I find this very rude and […]
by Kelly (Clearwater florida) I cant explain how it works so well but I would like to explain how it worked for me. My husband is deaf so we decided to teach my little lilypad how to sign. Before My little girl could even talk she was signing. Now she can sign better than me, […]
by Novalie Bulin (Mansfield TX) My favorite among the Deaf Community are those young adults who stood their ground and demanded a Deaf President Now. It took great courage and strength of character to stand up for themselves and the students of the future. They finally got the attention of society that the Deaf have […]
by Anonymous I was surprised to read that President Lincoln played a role in deaf history. This is something that isn’t mentioned in American history. I know most Americans wouldn’t care about legislation allowing college degrees to be issued from a Deaf college. Maybe that is why I find history boring they don’t include interesting […]
by Becky (Hamlin, PA) I pick Marlee Matlin as my favorite deaf person. I wasn’t going to submit an answer to this question, because I didn’t think my reason was very impressive. Back in high school, I loved the show MacGyver. At some point, she dated Richard Dean Anderson. And since ASL has always fascinated […]
by Aurora To be honest, I can’t really choose a favourite person from Deaf history since I am just now learning and getting involved with ASL. I can only say that I admire and respect all those who have helped bring knowledge and acknowledgment to deaf people’s culture and need for recognition. Oppression of any […]
by Lauren (Lake Wales, FL) Wow! How amazing. I never knew much of anything about Deaf history, and it is so interesting. I knew the bare basics of Helen Keller from books and TV and that Gallaudet was a very special school. I also knew some about Heather Whitestone because my cousin, Angela Hunt, wrote […]
by Kendra Wolcott I’ll never forget the first time I truly witnessed Sign Language in use: I was lazing around in my room, absent-mindedly watching a music video on YouTube when I noticed that during the final few moments of the video, the lead singer, rather than simply mouthing the words to the chorus, signed […]
by Marvin Spencer (Redlands,CA, USA) I’m a hard of hearing person who entered the hearing world with this loneliness of being deaf. To others, yelling is not an option and making fun of others without understanding is not worth doing. Others should try to understand other languages than just their own language. Getting into the […]
by Diane (Texas, USA) I have known a few people that were deaf over the years and have enjoyed learning enough sign language to communicate. The best experience I have had was a co-worker that was deaf and had the best sense of humor ever! He brought me a postcard-size card with the alphabet in […]
by Lisa Groves (Camdenton, MO) I found it very difficult to choose just one favorite, but in the interest of the essay subject I chose Thomas H. Gallaudet. He must have been very dedicated to learning the best possible ways to educate the deaf because in his day making a trip to Europe was no […]
by Anonymous (Northampton, Massachusetts) One thing that happens to me at least once a week is when I am speaking to someone and I am having trouble understanding, I tell them “Sorry, I read lips, could you please look at me when you speak?” they cover their mouth and continue talking AT me. These people […]
by Anonymous Many moons ago, I worked with a lovely woman in our corporation. Her hearing was so bad that we’d tell her when to replace her ear molds because of the feedback and she couldn’t hear it. I was just hard of hearing back then. I remember our impatient attitude sometimes with Marilyn. We […]
by B.J. (Columbus, Ohio) Treat them how you want to be treated.If you were the one deaf would you want someone to ask your friend what you wanted. They can talk they just do it in a different way from the hearing. I was brought up not by deaf people but the blind and people […]
by Kristin McGinnis (California, US) I added this to my materials for my ASL 1/2 class. The book itself is set up in logical chapters with short articles interwoven throughout. What I really like is that they not only have the “master” word, but other words that have the same meaning, which cuts down a […]
Ear anatomy is not as complex as you might think. There are only a few anatomical parts that make hearing possible. However, if there is something wrong with any one of those small pieces, you can lose your hearing completely. The ear is made up of three parts–the outer ear, middle ear, and inner ear. […]
As you are learning sign language, you need to master the skill of American Sign Language fingerspelling (spelling out words by hand one letter at a time). In American Sign Language, fingerspelling is used to indicate places, names, or ideas for which there is no official sign. Fingerspelled words can also be used if you […]
Step 8 – Taming Stress Signing, like I said before, is great for preventing tantrums with your baby. Signing helps eliminate the frustration your child feels when she can’t communicate. For example, when your child is frantically waving her arms in the air and signing “help” to you, you would sign “help” back while asking […]
We found all the best ones! We have searched for the best sign language books, checked them out, and read their reviews. All of the best sign language books we’ve found are listed below. Fortunately, we found a whole bunch of them. Some of these sign language books are good for use in the classroom […]
Below is a high quality printable free sign language chart image and PDF. Download PDF Now“Free Basic Sign Language Chart” (Keep in mind that you will need Adobe Reader in order to view the PDF. You can get it free here.) This American Sign Language chart outlines a few common signs that may help with […]
Great Ideas for that Perfect Gift! I remember going to my first Deaf Expo and discovering all the incredible sign language gifts that are out there in the world. I couldn’t believe that I didn’t find them before! If you want to give a special gift to a Deaf person or a friend or relative […]
It’s not uncommon to see a dog leading and assisting a blind person. You have probably seen a few of those trained dogs during the course of your life. But have you ever noticed a dog helping a deaf person? Yes, it’s true; dogs can be trained to assist deaf people. These hearing dogs are […]
During my studies at California State University, Northridge, I took a class called Issues in the Deaf Community. I remember a comment my Deaf professor made regarding a hearing test. My Issues in the Deaf Community class usually covered issues regarding the oppression of deaf people. This comment about the testing of hearing was no […]
ASL 3 – Unit 10 Interpreting Songs in ASL In this unit of the free American Sign Language lessons, you will be learning how to interpret songs in ASL. Interpreting Songs in ASL One of the most fun ways to use ASL is in the interpretation of songs. Songs interpreted into ASL aren’t used very […]
These books are absolutely necessary to learn about Deaf culture! There is no way that we can teach you everything you need to know about the history of Deaf culture and Deaf culture on this website. You can read our Deaf Culture page, but that doesn’t hold a candle to everything you can learn from […]
Step 2 – Getting Started The first thing you will do before you start teaching your infant sign language is pick the signs you are going to begin with. I suggest picking a handful of signs. Most parents choose signs that have to do with eating like “eat,” “drink,” or “milk.” Throw in some fun […]
Irish Sign Language (ISL) is the sign language used in Ireland (primarily in the Republic of Ireland). ISL is also used in Northern Ireland, but British Sign Language (BSL) is used there as well. ISL is more similar to American Sign Language and French Sign Language than British Sign Language and is not related to […]
Japanese Sign Language (JSL), to me, is truly amazing. I am fascinated even by the Japanese language, so this signed language really interests me. JSL is the sign language used in Japan… Bet you didn’t guess that. Just like how Japanese is completely different from English, JSL is completely different from ASL. For one, JSL […]
There is a common myth that I must try to destroy every time someone asks… ASL is NOT universal. We cannot tell you how many times we’ve been asked (and sometimes even told) about this myth. Just like the thousands of different languages of the world–there are several different signed languages. We think this fact […]
by Devyn (Michigan) I am a college student, almost finished with my 2nd semester of ASL. I absolutely love it. In fact I had just watched Through Deaf Eyes this week, for the first time. I agree, it was a very amazing film and an excellent educational tool! Along with college, I have put myself […]
ASL 1 – Unit 14 Did You Enjoy the Class? Share Your Experience! Congratulations! You have completed the StartASL.com ASL 1 class! I hope that you have learned everything you have wanted to learn in ASL 1 and that you enjoyed learning sign language online free. Many new ASL students are very interested to know […]
by Leah (London, ON, CA) I was born hard of hearing and I have heard of a few famous deaf people on and off in my life such as Helen Keller, Beethoven, Alexander Graham Bell, Heather Whitestone, Sue Thomas, Deanne Bray, Marlee Matlin, etc. I admire everyone that I listed above especially Sue Thomas for […]
ASL 1 – Unit 13 In this unit of the sign language course, I will be quizzing you on what you have learned so far. This unit is a cumulative review of everything you have learned so far. You will be quizzed on numbers, vocabulary, comprehension, and expression. Vocabulary Visit our ASL 1 Vocabulary Review […]
Using sign language flashcards is a great way to retain the ASL you’re learning. We have had a great time using flash cards while learning ASL and below are some of our favorites. Please note that when you choose to purchase through the external links on this website (in many but not all cases) we […]
Step 1 – Introduction Yes, you need to read an introduction before starting. This will just give you a background about why sign language for babies is so effective. Baby Signing Myths First, I want to list some myths about teaching your baby sign language: Signing with your baby is a new fad. Your baby […]
There are many different American Sign Language symbols and letters that are used in a variety of ways. There are symbols used for writing ASL signs, glossing ASL sentences, and fingerspelling in ASL. Symbols for Writing ASL Signs American Sign Language symbols were developed in order to write how ASL signs are signed. This is […]
We found all the best ones! We have searched for all the best sign language videos. We have checked them out and read their reviews. There really are a lot of good ones to choose from! The videos on this page were carefully selected and are our recommendations to you if you absolutely must buy […]
Spanish Sign Language is a sign language that I really didn’t know anything about until now. I really wish there was a class that touched on international signed languages, such as this one, while I was studying Deaf Studies. SSL is the sign language used in Spain. Just like how Spanish is completely different […]
Swedish Sign Language (TSP) is the sign language used in Sweden. TSP did not stem from any other sign languages, but it did influence Finnish Sign Language (FSL) and Portuguese Sign Language (PSR). It has been in use since 1800 and in 1809, the first deaf school in Sweden was established. Swedish Sign Language was […]
If you absolutely must buy one… …buy one of these! We have searched and searched for the best American Sign Language software. We have checked them out and read the reviews of others. Sadly, there aren’t that many good ones out there. But, we can say that the ones listed below are recommended. Please note […]
Step 10 – Your Growing Child If your child has begun to speak, you may notice that she stops using many signs. At this point, some parents will stop using sign language because they have gotten what they wanted–a preverbal form of communication with their child. However, some parents continue to teach their toddler sign […]
Back in the day, deaf people would drive all the way to their friends’ homes to talk to them. Then, the TTY was invented. Back then, it was called a TDD (Telecommunications Device for the Deaf). A teletypewriter looks like a word processor. It has a keyboard and a display screen. They actually look pretty […]
Auslan (Australian Sign Language) is a beautiful language. Well, all signed languages are beautiful to me, but this one holds a special place in my heart. When I was 12 years old, I was blessed enough to be able to visit Australia for 16 days. While I was there, I truly wish I would have […]
Step 11 – Finding More Signers Getting connected with other parents who teach their babies sign language can truly be a great thing. Not only do you have some support, but you can also make great friends. When you get together, you will be able to share strategies and progress. You can even learn new […]
We have searched for the best baby sign language books, checked them out, and read their reviews. All of the best baby sign language books we’ve found are listed below. Fortunately, we found a whole bunch of them. Please note that when you choose to purchase through the external links on this website (in many […]
Step 12 – Conclusion Many parents buy a baby sign language DVD or many books to learn what you have learned in these 12 steps. You have learned so much already without buying either of those! However, if you do wish to learn more than what we have offered here, we highly recommend buying one. […]
12 Easy Steps for Communication with Your Baby Let me guess…your baby is crying uncontrollably and you want to know what he wants so your ears can take a break…No? Maybe, then, you want to learn how to keep that from happening. Well, you’ve come to the right place. Teaching baby sign language to your […]
Step 4 – When Things Don’t Go the Way You Planned You may encounter some friends or family that don’t believe in baby signing. Skeptical friends and family can definitely depress your excitement. They may quote the myths we told you about earlier or tell you that signing with your baby will never work. All […]
Step 7 – Sign Combinations Babies will often start to combine vocal words (the baby talk begins!) as they progress in their learning. This is the same for signing children. If you sign with your baby long enough, and even when he becomes a toddler, he will most likely start combining signs. This may happen […]
British Sign Language is my favorite second signed language. BSL is the sign language used in the United Kingdom (UK). I get tingles every time I see their two-handed manual alphabet. BSL is related to Australian Sign Language (Auslan) and New Zealand Sign Language (NZSL). These three signed languages descended from the same parent language […]
Chinese Sign Language (CSL) has been developing mostly since the late 1950’s and its signs are like written Chinese characters. CSL has several dialects with Shanghai being the most common. Even though the first deaf school using CSL was founded in 1887 by C.R. Mills, an American missionary, and his wife, CSL was not influenced […]
Lip-reading is rather unsuccessful (only an average of 20% understanding). Closed captioning, however, takes all the lip-reading out of watching television! You have probably watched television. And you have probably pressed a button on your remote that makes white words with a black background pop up on your screen (either on purpose or by accident). […]
Step 5 – Caregivers Some parents who use baby sign language stay at home with their children while others leave for work. If you are working away from home, you most likely leave your baby with a caregiver or family member. If your baby’s caregiver is not involved in the signing process, this may be […]
Many people wonder how deaf people are able to wake up if they can’t hear an alarm. However, with the advent of new technology for the deaf, waking up is no longer a problem for deaf people. So, how do they do it? With what you may call a “deaf alarm clock,” of course! Photo […]
…are really hard to come by! We have searched for all the best Deaf art books. We have checked them out and read their reviews. Sadly, there aren’t that many to choose from. But, we can say that the ones listed below are recommended. Please note that when you choose to purchase through the external […]
Below you will find all of our Deaf articles on the site. Deaf Culture Below are all of our Deaf articles related to Deaf culture: Deaf Culture – A breakdown of the language, values, and behaviors of Deaf Culture. The Deaf Community and How You Can Get Involved – Learn about the Deaf community and […]
There are so many deaf dating sites available on the internet that it can be difficult to find the right one. Most deaf dating sites cater to deaf and hard of hearing people, so if you are a hearing ASL student, you should look into these sites further to find one where you might fit […]
Educating the deaf is a hot topic, and these books are indispensable! We have searched and searched for the best Deaf education books to share with you. The education of the deaf has always been a hot topic in the Deaf community, and learning the ins and outs of this education is very important. We […]
Learn more about Deaf history than you ever wanted to know! If you are learning ASL and planning to be a part of the Deaf community, you have to know about Deaf history. You can read our history of sign language page, but that doesn’t hold a candle to everything you can learn from these […]
Here are some of the best deaf jokes we’ve heard over the years: Deaf Jokes – Motel A deaf couple check into a motel and go to bed early. The wife wakes her husband in the middle of the night complaining of a headache. She asks him to go to the car to get some […]
To learn more about products for the deaf, like hearing aids, visit our Hearing Loss page. Great sign language products are hard to come by. There are tons of ASL books, software, and videos out there, but are they all really that good? No, not really. We have searched for the best products to recommend […]
Opening Doors for the Deaf Deaf people didn’t have many careers choices a few decades ago. They would usually find themselves working in trade jobs, non-profit work, or as teachers at schools for the deaf. But now, only a short time later, many doors have opened not only because of the Americans with Disabilities Act […]
Deaf Videophone Directory Deaf VP was a Deaf Videophone directory created by Sorenson. Videophones are telephones with a video screen. They enable deaf people to call each other (or a relay service) and use American Sign Language, their first language, to communicate. James38, CC:BY-SA Videophones themselves, however, haven’t become very popular. The reason for this […]
ASL 1 – Unit 11 In this unit of the online sign language class, you will learn how to identify people. Conversation Read this outline, and then watch the conversation in action on the video clip. Try to recognize what is being said. Watch the video again until you can follow the conversation without the […]
by Leah Ward (Williamsburg, Virginia, U.S.) LeRoy Colombo LeRoy Colombo was born on December 23, 1905 in Galveston, Texas. He was diagnosed with spinal meningitis when he was seven years old, which caused him to lose his hearing and the use of his legs. His brothers helped him to swim and within the next year […]
by Ansh Make sure you maintain eye contact during a signed conversation. Look straight into his/her eyes without getting distracted. You also need to avoid eating or chewing anything while signing with a deaf person. You should also make sure the lighting makes it easy for the person you are signing with to see your […]
There are 2 students online.
Michelle Jay
Angela Whitehouse
Recent Comments