Jean Massieu was a prominent figure in the history of education for the deaf. Born in 1780 in France, he was one of the first deaf individuals to become a teacher. Massieu studied at the National Institute for Deaf-Mutes in Paris, where he later taught and contributed to the development of sign language. Massieu is best known for his role in promoting the use of French Sign Language and advocating for the rights of deaf individuals. His work helped to establish a more inclusive educational system for the deaf, influencing future generations of educators and students in the field.