Louis Braille

Louis Braille was a French educator and inventor. He was born in Coupvray, France, in 1809. He lost his sight in an accident at age three. He invented the Braille system, which lets blind people read and write using raised dots.

Early Life

Braille was blinded at age three when a sharp tool accidentally poked his eye. The infection spread to both eyes. He attended the Royal Institute for Blind Youth in Paris. He was frustrated that there was no good way for blind people to read.

Big Achievements

At just 15 years old, Braille created a system of raised dots that blind people could feel with their fingertips. Each letter is represented by a pattern of up to six dots. His system made it possible for blind people to read, write, and learn independently. Braille is used in nearly every country today.

Fun Facts

• Braille invented his system when he was just 15 years old.
• He based his system on a military code used for reading in the dark.
• The Braille system uses patterns of up to six raised dots for each letter.

Did You Know?

Braille's system was not accepted right away. His own school did not officially adopt it until two years after he died. Today, Braille is used worldwide and has been adapted for nearly every language.