Many people know Helen Keller, a deaf-blind individual who became a symbol of determination for people with disabilities in pursuing education. However, fewer people know about the person who educated and guided Helen Adams Keller on her journey to becoming a trailblazer for equal education for those with disabilities. Meet Anne Sullivan, the remarkable teacher, mentor, and friend who played a pivotal role in Helen Keller’s life.
Introduction to Helen Keller
Helen Keller, an American author, political activist, and lecturer, is renowned for her achievements despite being both deaf and blind. She received numerous accolades during her lifetime, including honorary university degrees, induction into the Women’s Hall of Fame, the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the Lions Humanitarian Award, and even had a film about her life win two Academy Awards.
Additionally, Helen Keller authored several books, including “The World I Live In” and “The Story of My Life,” which she wrote in both regular script and Braille. She also founded the American Foundation for the Blind and the American Foundation for The Overseas Blind.
The Role of Anne Sullivan
Helen Keller’s journey as a disability advocate did not happen in isolation; she had a dedicated companion, mentor, and friend who opened up the world to her. This person was Anne Sullivan, born as Johanna Mansfield Sullivan.
Anne Sullivan had vision when she was born but tragically lost her sight at the age of five due to trachoma, a disease that severely affected both of her eyes. Despite undergoing two surgeries, Anne’s vision remained limited, and she had low vision.
Anne Sullivan’s Challenging Early Life
Anne Sullivan’s life story is as captivating as Helen Keller’s. She was born into an Irish family that immigrated to America during the European famine. She was the eldest of four siblings born into a poor family.
However, tragedy struck when Anne was just eight years old. Her mother passed away from tuberculosis, and two years later, her father disappeared. Anne Sullivan and her younger brother were adopted by social services in Tucksberry, Massachusetts, and one of her younger sisters went missing. After extensive searching, Anne discovered that her younger sister had worked as an entertainer and had endured violence. Eventually, the family was reunited.
Overcoming Adversity through Education
Anne Sullivan’s education journey was far from straightforward. She attended the Perkins School for the Blind but only completed her high school equivalent education at the age of 28. Despite these challenges, Anne’s life experiences uniquely prepared her for the monumental task of teaching Helen Keller.
Anne Sullivan Meets Helen Keller
Anne Sullivan’s path crossed with that of Helen Keller when she began teaching her at the age of seven. Helen Keller hailed from Alabama and was raised in a conservative family, which initially posed difficulties for Anne in imparting lessons. Anne’s goal was to encourage Helen Keller to learn outside the confines of her home and attend school.
Innovative Teaching Methods
To teach Helen Keller effectively, Anne Sullivan employed innovative methods, including the Haptic method, which involved understanding shapes through touch and sound vibrations on the throat. This method proved successful, and within just five months, Helen Keller had memorized over 500 words. Anne also taught Helen Keller to read and write using Braille.
Anne Sullivan’s Impact and Legacy
Anne Sullivan was not just a teacher but also a friend to Helen Keller. For 49 years, she provided guidance and served as a sounding board for Helen Keller. Their friendship endured until Anne Sullivan passed away peacefully at the age of 70 in 1936.
Conclusion
Anne Sullivan’s role as Helen Keller’s teacher, mentor, and friend was instrumental in shaping Helen’s life and advocacy for disability rights and education. Anne’s own life experiences, challenges, and determination equipped her to teach Helen Keller effectively. Together, they demonstrated the power of education and unwavering friendship in overcoming adversity. Anne Sullivan’s legacy continues to inspire and remind us of the importance of inclusive education and support for individuals with disabilities.