Early Twentieth Century: Educational opportunities for the blind and deaf are extremely limited. There are very few schools to teach children with these needs, and in many cases the blind and deaf are sent to mental asylums. Public sentiment toward the blind and deaf is negative and uneducated.

Today: There are numerous schools across the country specializing in instructing students with these needs, and many children who are blind or deaf learn to function in public schools. Laws require that the handicapped be accommodated and that employers offer equal opportunities to prospective employees, regardless of physical challenges.

Early Twentieth Century: In 1900, Keller begins her college studies at Radcliffe. Her first-year courses are French, German History, English composition, and English literature.

Today: While freshman courses vary from college to college, most students take four or five courses per semester. These courses often include American or...