Helen Keller
1880-1968
She was a famous author and speaker who showed the world that people with disabilities can achieve great things.
Early Life
Helen Keller was born in 1880 in Alabama, USA. When she was just 19 months old, she became very sick, and the illness left her unable to see or hear.
Because she could not see or hear, Helen felt confused and frustrated as a young child. She had trouble communicating with her family and often felt lonely.
Meeting Her Teacher
Everything began to change when Helen was about six years old. A young teacher named Anne Sullivan came to live with her family and help teach Helen how to communicate.
Anne used touch to help Helen understand words. One famous moment happened at a water pump, when Helen realized that the movements Anne spelled into her hand meant the word “water.”
Learning and Education
After learning her first words, Helen was eager to learn more. She learned to read using Braille, a special system of raised dots, and she also learned how to write.
Helen worked very hard in school and went on to attend college. In 1904, she became the first deaf-blind person to earn a college degree, which was an amazing achievement.
Achievements and Work
Helen Keller became a well-known author and wrote many books and articles. Her most famous book, *The Story of My Life*, tells about her childhood and how she learned to communicate.
She also traveled around the world giving speeches. Helen spoke up for people with disabilities and worked to make education and opportunities more fair for everyone.
Legacy and Inspiration
Helen Keller showed the world that challenges do not have to stop someone from following their dreams. She believed strongly in kindness, hard work, and learning.
Today, Helen Keller is remembered as a symbol of courage and determination. Her life continues to inspire children and adults to believe in themselves and never give up.
🎉 Fun Facts
Helen learned her first word, “water,” at the famous water pump, which helped her understand that everything has a name.
She loved dogs and had several pets throughout her life.
Helen met many famous people, including presidents and inventors.
She could speak by feeling the movements of other people’s lips and throats.