Signed languages have a rich and complex history that dates back centuries. These unique forms of communication have been used by deaf communities all over the world, allowing them to communicate and connect with one another in a way that is natural and intuitive for them. In this article, we’ll dive into the history of signed language and explore how it has evolved and shaped the way we understand language and communication.
The origins of signed language can be traced back to as early as the 5th century BCE, with mentions in ancient Greek literature of deaf people using gestures to communicate. However, it wasn’t until the 18th century that signed languages were recognized as proper languages with their own grammatical rules and structure.
One of the most well-known figures in the history of signed language is French priest Charles-Michel de l’Épée. In the mid-1700s, de l’Épée founded the first school for deaf children and developed a method of using gestures and signs to teach them French grammar and vocabulary. His efforts to educate the deaf community and recognize their natural mode of communication contributed greatly to the development and recognition of sign languages as a legitimate language.
In the early 19th century, American Thomas Hopkins Gallaudet traveled to Europe to study the methods used to educate deaf individuals. While there, he met Abbé Sicard, a student of de l’Épée, who introduced him to the French Sign Language. Upon his return to the United States, Gallaudet collaborated with Laurent Clerc, a deaf teacher from France, and established the first American school for the deaf in 1817. This marked the beginning of American Sign Language (ASL), which evolved from the fusion of French Sign Language and the existing signs used by deaf communities in the United States.
Another significant event in the history of signed language is the 1880 Milan Conference. At this conference, educators from all over the world voted for oral education, banning the use of sign language in schools. This decision had a significant impact on the deaf community, as it essentially tried to eradicate their natural language in favor of spoken languages. It wasn’t until the 1960s and 1970s that the use of signed languages in education was gradually reintroduced, leading to the recognition of ASL and other sign languages as valid languages.
A crucial aspect of signed language that sets it apart from spoken language is its visual and spatial components. Unlike spoken languages, signed languages use the hands, facial expressions, and body movements to convey meaning. This makes it a highly visual and dynamic language, allowing for the expression of abstract concepts that are often challenging to represent using words alone.
Moreover, signed languages have their own distinct grammatical structure and syntax, with each language having its own unique linguistic features. For example, ASL follows a Subject-Object-Verb (SOV) syntax, while British Sign Language (BSL) has a Subject-Verb-Object (SVO) structure. These grammatical rules and variations demonstrate that signed languages are independent and complete languages, not merely a simplified version of spoken languages.
Today, signed languages continue to evolve and adapt to meet the communication needs of deaf communities. With the advancement of technology and media, there are now numerous resources and online platforms dedicated to teaching and preserving signed languages. In recent years, signed languages have also gained recognition in various fields such as literature, theatre, and even poetry, showcasing their expressive and creative potential.
In conclusion, the history of signed language is a testament to the resilience of deaf communities and their determination to communicate and be heard. From its humble beginnings to its recognition as a legitimate language, signed language has played a vital role in shaping the way we understand and perceive language and communication. As we continue to learn and appreciate the complexities of these languages, let us also recognize and celebrate their unique beauty and richness.