Sign language can trace back to 1541, when the Plains Indians developed their own form of sign language to be able to communicate with tribes who spoke different languages (“American sign language,” 2017). Although sign language was used by the Plains Indians, it was not until the 19th century that other places started to develop and acquire sign language. A few places including Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts acquired the language. Martha’s Vineyard sign language (MVSL) become frequently used in Chilmark, Massachusetts because the rate of genetic deafness was high (“American sign language,” 2017). Later, in 1817 American Sign Language originated in Hartford, Connecticut. It all began when, a hearing minister and graduate from Yale University
