Thomas Hopkins Gallaudet was an American educator born on December 10, 1787. He is best known for his pioneering work in the education of the deaf. Gallaudet co-founded the first permanent school for the deaf in the United States, known as the Hartford School for the Deaf, in 1817. His efforts significantly advanced the teaching methods used for deaf students. Gallaudet's influence extended beyond his school; he also played a crucial role in developing American Sign Language (ASL). He collaborated with Laurent Clerc, a deaf teacher from France, to bring effective communication methods to the deaf community. Gallaudet's legacy continues to impact deaf education today.