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DEAF-DUMB SIGN LANGUAGE
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DEAF-DUMB SIGN LANGUAGE
The Dumb Alphabet - a girl demonstrates the art of communicating with the deaf and dumb. Date: 1801
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Media ID 20157927
© Bubblepunk
1801 Alphabet Communicating Deaf Demonstrates Dumb Language
EDITORS COMMENTS
This image, dated 1801, showcases a young girl gracefully demonstrating the art of sign language to an engaged audience. Sign language, a vital mode of communication for individuals who are deaf or dumb, has a rich and intriguing history that dates back to the 16th century. The girl in this photograph is using the 'Dumb Alphabet,' also known as the 'Manual Alphabet,' which was developed in the late 18th century by French educator Charles-Michel de l'Épée and his colleague Abbe de l'Epee. The Dumb Alphabet, a precursor to modern sign languages, allowed users to represent each letter of the English alphabet through specific handshapes and movements. This system enabled deaf individuals to learn to read and write, providing them with greater access to education and opportunities for communication. The girl in the photograph is expertly conveying the letters of the alphabet, her expressions clear and deliberate, as she connects with her audience. The photograph offers a glimpse into the past, showcasing the importance of sign language as a means of communication for those who are deaf or dumb. It is a poignant reminder of the resilience and determination of individuals throughout history who have sought to overcome barriers to communication and connect with one another. This powerful image, with its timeless message, continues to inspire and captivate us today.
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