What awards did Helen Keller receive? Helen Keller, an American author, political activist, and lecturer, is one of the most inspirational figures in history. Despite being deaf and blind from an early age, she overcame insurmountable odds to become a renowned author and a prominent advocate for the rights of people with disabilities. Throughout her life, Keller received numerous awards and honors, which recognized her achievements and contributions to society.
Helen Keller’s first major award came in 1904 when she received the prestigious John S. Seward Award from the National Institute of Social Science. This award was presented to her in recognition of her outstanding achievements as a deaf-blind individual. In 1905, she was awarded the first honorary degree from the Radcliffe College, marking the beginning of her illustrious academic career.
One of the most significant awards Keller received was the Pulitzer Prize for her autobiography, “The Story of My Life,” which was published in 1902. This accolade was a testament to her literary prowess and the impact her work had on the world. In 1924, she was awarded the Presidential Medal of Honor by President Calvin Coolidge, becoming the first deaf-blind person to receive this prestigious honor.
Keller’s advocacy work also earned her numerous accolades. In 1929, she received the Roosevelt Medal from President Herbert Hoover for her contributions to the welfare of the disabled. The same year, she was awarded the Spingarn Medal by the NAACP for her work in the civil rights movement. Keller continued to receive accolades throughout her life, including the American Foundation for the Blind’s Medal of Merit in 1944 and the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 1964.
In addition to her many awards, Keller was also recognized by various organizations and institutions. She was awarded an honorary doctorate from more than 50 colleges and universities, including the Sorbonne in Paris. Keller’s achievements and the awards she received are a testament to her resilience, determination, and unwavering commitment to making a difference in the world.
In conclusion, Helen Keller received numerous awards throughout her life, which celebrated her accomplishments as a deaf-blind individual, an author, and an advocate for the rights of people with disabilities. These accolades serve as a reminder of the profound impact she had on society and the legacy she leaves behind.
