April 5 in American History

April 5, 1887 — Helen Keller learns her first word

Teacher Anne Sullivan spelled "w-a-t-e-r" into the hand of her deaf-blind pupil Helen Keller as water ran over it — and the seven-year-old suddenly grasped that things had names. Keller went on to become a world-famous author and advocate. One of the most moving breakthroughs in American history, at a backyard water pump.

Common Questions

What happened on April 5 in American history?

In 1887: Helen Keller learns her first word. Teacher Anne Sullivan spelled "w-a-t-e-r" into the hand of her deaf-blind pupil Helen Keller as water ran over it — and the seven-year-old suddenly grasped that things had names.

Why is April 5 significant?

Teacher Anne Sullivan spelled "w-a-t-e-r" into the hand of her deaf-blind pupil Helen Keller as water ran over it — and the seven-year-old suddenly grasped that things had names. Keller went on to become a world-famous author and advocate. One of the most moving breakthroughs in American history, at a backyard water pump.

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