What significant contributions did Helen Keller make to the world?

Answer 1

Basically bringing the blind/deaf people out of the closet, so to speak. She proved -- or to be more precise, Annie Sullivan, her teacher proved -- that it is possible for blind and deaf people to learn sign language, which they do on the palm of the recipient's hand, instead of in the air like the deaf who are sighted.

The hard part, as you know if you have seen "The Miracle Worker," was getting the whole concept of language and communication across to the child who is both blind and deaf. Because she not only learned, but eventually shared what she learned, writing in Braille and signing, a whole lot of other people have been able to live good lives, not hidden away in the back wards of state hospitals, or worse. Actually, as I recall she even learned to speak eventually, and gave lectures.

The other thing Helen Keller did which may be even more remarkable was to write about things other than her handicap. She demonstrated that a person with communication problems can so overcome them that they can look beyond themselves, be generous and compassionate toward others.

The same is clearly true for people with other sorts of handicaps. It is not necessary to become self-absorbed and crabby and demanding. You can retain a human soul, appreciate the people who make the attempt to befriend you, and have compassion for others with other problems, as well as share what you've learned about overcoming your own.

Answer 2

During her lifetime, Helen Keller received awards of great distinction. These awards include Brazil's Order of the Southern Cross; Japan's Sacred Treasure; the Philippines' Golden Heart; Lebanon's Gold Medal of Merit; and her own country's highest honor, the Presidential Medal of Freedom. In 1933 she was elected to membership in the National Institute of Arts and Letters. During the Louis Braille Centennial Commemoration in 1952, Miss Keller was made a Chevalier of the French Legion of Honor at a ceremony in the Sorbonne. Miss Keller also received the Americas Award for Inter-American Unity, the Gold Medal Award from the National Institute of Social Sciences, the National Humanitarian Award from Variety Clubs International, and many others. She held honorary memberships in scientific societies and philanthropic organizations throughout the world. Helen spoke five languages, and went to college at a time when American women simply did not go to college. These awards were the highest honors of their respective countries, given in recognition, not of a handicapped woman, but of a woman whose tireless efforts to promote understanding, secure education for the blind and deaf,overcome the limitations of her disabilities, and educate the world on the role of disabled persons within a society. Yes, she was instrumental in changing Americans attitudes concerning the blind and deaf. She appeared before legislatures, gave lectures, wrote articles. A remarkable woman, an American icon and hero. Helen was all this, and more, a humble and brilliant person.

Answer 3

She was a famous writer.

Was an advocate for people with disabilities, and made notable contributions to help those with blindness and deafness (what she had).

Also introduced the akita breed of dog to the US.

Answer 4

Hope.