Sign language is a vital form of communication used by millions of people worldwide. Its history is long and diverse, reflecting the cultures and communities it serves. While many think of sign language as a modern invention, it has deep historical roots.

Early Beginnings
Gestural communication has existed since ancient times. Early records show that sign-like gestures were used in Ancient Greece and by Indigenous peoples across the globe. These early systems were often informal, created out of necessity for trade, hunting, or communication with deaf individuals.

The Birth of Formal Sign Language
The development of formal sign language began in 18th-century France. Charles-Michel de l’Épée, a pioneer in deaf education, founded a school in Paris where he developed a standardized system based on the signs used by deaf students. This system became known as Old French Sign Language and laid the foundation for many modern sign languages.

Global Variation
As sign languages developed, they evolved differently around the world. For example, American Sign Language (ASL) was influenced by French Sign Language but grew into a unique language with its own grammar and vocabulary. British Sign Language (BSL), however, developed independently and is not mutually intelligible with ASL, despite both countries using English.

Today, there are more than 300 distinct sign languages worldwide. Each reflects the culture, history, and identity of its users. The history of sign language shows that communication takes many forms—and all are equally powerful.