Helen Keller was an American author, activist, and lecturer, renowned for overcoming the challenges of being both deaf and blind. Born on June 27, 1880, in Tuscumbia, Alabama, Keller lost her sight and hearing at the age of 19 months due to an illness. Despite these overwhelming disabilities, she became one of the most influential figures of the 20th century.
Keller’s life changed dramatically when she met Anne Sullivan, her teacher and lifelong companion, who taught her how to communicate using the manual alphabet. With Sullivan's help, Keller learned to read, write, and speak, becoming the first deaf-blind person to earn a Bachelor of Arts degree from Radcliffe College in 1904.
Helen Keller's career as a writer began with her autobiography, The Story of My Life, published in 1903. This work, which details her early life and the challenges she faced, remains an inspiration to many. Over the years, she authored several other books and articles, advocating for people with disabilities, women's rights, and social justice.
In addition to her literary work, Keller was a fierce advocate for political causes, working with organizations like the American Foundation for the Blind and participating in social reform movements. Her legacy continues to inspire those overcoming personal adversity, and she remains an icon of resilience and determination in the face of hardship.