Anne Sullivan

Anne Sullivan was an American teacher. She was born in Feeding Hills, Massachusetts, in 1866. She is best known as the teacher of Helen Keller. She helped Helen learn to communicate despite being blind and deaf.

Early Life

Sullivan had a difficult childhood. She lost most of her sight as a child. She attended the Perkins School for the Blind where she had surgery that partially restored her vision. At age 20, she became Helen Keller's teacher.

Big Achievements

Sullivan taught Helen Keller by spelling words into her hand. The breakthrough came when Helen understood the word water. Sullivan stayed with Helen for 49 years as her teacher and companion. She is called the Miracle Worker for her incredible patience and dedication.

Fun Facts

• Sullivan was nearly blind herself when she began teaching Helen.
• She taught Helen to communicate by spelling words into her palm.
• The play and movie The Miracle Worker tells the story of Sullivan and Keller.

Did You Know?

Sullivan and Keller stayed together for nearly 50 years. Sullivan helped Keller attend college, write books, and give speeches around the world. Without Sullivan's dedication, the world might never have known Helen Keller's remarkable story.