I know sign language isn't what usually comes to mind when you hear the word technology but to some people it's their only form of non-written communication. I bet some deaf people would argue that sign language is a more important technology than the telephone.
In 1620, Juan Pablo de Bonet published the first book that taught sign language to the deaf. His writings were based on the work of an Italian physician, Girolamo Cardano, who stated that hearing words was not necessary for understanding ideas. He invented a code for teaching the deaf but his work was never put in to use until Jaun Pable de Bonet published his book. Until this point in history, deaf people were thought of as unable to reason of form ideas. As sign language spread, the deaf were not only gaining a form of communication but respect as well.
Why take a plane when you can travel instantly through the phone lines. By dailing the same number as before you can be talking to the person face to face within seconds.
page last updated: Spring, 2002