Alice Cogswell was a significant figure in the history of education for the deaf. Born in 1805, she became deaf at a young age due to a fever. Her father, Dr. Thomas Cogswell, recognized the need for her education and sought help from educators, leading to her connection with Thomas Gallaudet, who would later co-found the first school for the deaf in the United States. Alice's influence extended beyond her own education. She inspired Gallaudet to establish the Connecticut Asylum for the Education and Instruction of Deaf and Dumb Persons in 1817, which was the first permanent school for the deaf in America. Her story highlights the importance of accessible education for individuals with disabilities.