-
Deaf Education Formally Begins in the U.S.
In 1815 the first permanent school for the Deaf is founded in America; Specifically in Hartford Connecticut by Thomas H. Gallaudet. At the time, it is called the "Connecticut Asylum for the Education and Instruction of Deaf and Dumb persons", which would not be politically correct in 2025, but at the time was a revolutionary advancement for disabled individuals. This event created an incredible precedent for deaf individuals in America. -
Braille is Created
Louise Braille invents the raised point alphabet, braille which he named after himself; this makes him become a household name, although his method does not become well-known in the United States until 1860. This method is still used today to teach the blind as well as for blind individuals to be able to read for pleasure, as well as to be able to read signs and warnings. -
A Person with a Disability is Elected
In 1932, Franklin D. Roosevelt becomes the 32nd president of the United States; Years before this crowning achievement, in August of 1921, Roosevelt contracted polio, which caused him to become paralyzed from the waist down and be confined to a wheelchair. After becoming President, he supports the founding of the National Foundation for Infantile Paralysis which lands him the honor of being commemorated onto the U.S. dime. -
The Social Security Act is Signed into Law
In 1935, president Roosevelt signs the Social Security Act into law. This established a program of permanent assistance for adults with disabilities into action. This meant that individuals with disabilities would have help and support from the government if and when their disability prevents them from earning a living of their own. This is incredibly important for disabled people as many of them are not able to work whether they have physical or mental disabilities. -
Brown v Board of Education Case
In 1954, the case is won against segregation in schools. Although they were fighting primarily to end racial segregation during this time, this act also helped disabled students. This act meant that school segregation would abolished, and public schools are to be given permission to educate children with significant intellectual disabilities. -
The Architectural Barriers Act is Signed
In 1968, the architectural barriers act is signed into law; This act mandates that all buildings designed, constructed, altered, or leased with federal funds must be wheelchair accessible. Before this, inaccessibility to enter these buildings was the most significant obstacle for disabled people seeking employment. This law makes it significantly easier for disabled people to gain and keep employment in federal buildings. -
Education for Handicapped Children Act Signed
The Education for Handicapped Children Act of 1975 guarantees a free public and appropriate education for all children with disabilities. This law allows for children with disabilities to be included with their non-disabled peers as they deserve to be. This law was later changed into IDEA. -
A Deaf Actress is cast on Sesame Street
In 1976, actress Linda Bove, signs a long-term contract to play Linda the librarian on Sesame Street. She became the first ever deaf actress on Sesame Street, paving the way for disabled characters on the show to come. This representation is incredibly important for disabled children. Being able to see themselves represented on TV is very important for children's self esteem and futures. -
ADA Act is Signed
In 1990, President Bush signs legislation prohibiting the discrimination of people with disabilities in all areas of public life. This includes jobs, schools, transportation, and all public and private places open to the general public. The ADA gives civil rights protections to individuals with disabilities similar to those provided to individuals on the basis of sex, sexuality, and race. https://civilrights.baltimorecity.gov/faq-americans-disabilities-act-ada -
IDEA Act is Signed
In 1990, The Education for All Handicapped Children Act is renamed the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). This Act requires students with disabilities to be involved in developing their transition plans, and their interests and preferences are to be considered. This is an important event as it allowed disabled people to be in charge of their own education, and have autonomy over their lives. https://youtu.be/3XMndYNEGFA?si=Livl6uAb4ztazKEq