A well known figure of the 20th century, many learn about Helen Keller in school – how she overcame the limitations of both blindness and deafness.

But Helen Keller’s achievements reach far beyond her methods of communication…here are five things you didn’t know about this remarkable woman.

Defying the Odds

Helen Keller was the first deaf-blind person to earn a bachelor of arts degree. She attended Radcliffe College from 1900-1904, and graduated with honors at age 24. 

By the time she graduated, she had mastered five languages and penned her first book, The Story of My Life. By doing this, she also become the first deaf-blind author who wrote her own autobiography.

Friends in High Places

Keller's posse included some pretty legendary figures, from authors and entertainers to US presidents. A few examples of these high profile buddies are Mark Twain, Alexander Graham Bell, Charlie Chaplin, and President Franklin D. Roosevelt.

In fact, it was Mark Twain who introduced her to Standard Oil executive Henry H. Rogers, who was impressed with Keller's determination, intellect and abilities - so much so, that he paid for her to attend Radcliffe College!

Words, Words, Words

Though her first book, The Story of My Life, remains her most well-known, it wasn't Keller's only publication.

In her lifetime, Helen Keller published twelve different works ranging from autobiographical to political and even spiritual. She also published several articles and essays, and was a popular public speaker. An incredible feat for a woman who was both blind and deaf, to say the least!

Sweet Home Alabama

Helen Keller's home state isn't shy about showing her some much needed love. Since 2003, her image has appeared on the Alabama state quarter - currently the only U.S. coin in circulation that features braille.

In 2009, a bronze statue of Keller was added to the National Statuary Hall Collection at the Alabama State Capitol. This is the first statue to be displayed at a U.S. capitol building honoring a disabled person, and the only in the capitol's collection that depicts a child. Even now, she continues to be a woman of firsts.

A Strong Foundation

As well as founding her own organization, Helen Keller International, Keller assisted in the founding of the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU). In 1946, she was appointed Counselor of International Relations for the American Foundation of Overseas Blind - with this title, Keller traveled and spoke in 35 countries, on 5 continents.

An inspiring public speaker and advocate for people with disabilities, Keller supported the working class and fought for equality as a suffragette and pacifist. In her time, she was often seen as a “radical”.

It's been 50 years since Helen Keller passed away, and yet her influence continues to spread, inspiring an entirely new generation of readers, writers, and activists. Let's celebrate Helen Keller today! 

Browse Helen Keller books here.