Helen Keller and Anne SullivanA stereotypical "hero" is someone with superpowers, such as the ability to fly or superhuman strength to save citizens from dangerous situations, is good-looking and impeccable. However, a true hero is someone who, although imperfect, can overcome their difficulties to improve their life and the lives of others. They have a positive influence on the people they come into contact with and are able to effect change in society. History has shown that unexpected “heroes” have been able to challenge stereotypical views and implement economic, political and social progress. A great example is Helen Keller, a woman who lived in the 19th century and became blind, deaf, and mute when she was just a child. Caused by a mysterious illness, these devastating disabilities seemed like insurmountable obstacles and seemed incompatible with living a “normal” life. However, with the help of her tenacious teacher, Anne Sullivan, Keller worked hard to become educated and successful, paving the way for others with these life-altering disabilities. Despite her illness and difficulties in mentoring Keller, Anne Sullivan remained loyal to Keller and persisted in providing her with support and proper education when no one else would. Although Anne Sullivan and Helen Keller are not the traditional "heroes" that most people imagine, they represent revolutionary American heroes and have left a lasting mark on American history because they overcame great struggle and discrimination. They have had a positive impact on future generations by creating schools for the deaf and blind and have founded organizations that fight against discrimination and unfair treatment of disabled people and others who lack... a means of paper... or rather and they left to future generations the message that: "Duty invites us to go forward in active life. Let us go cheerfully, with hope and with seriousness, and be ready to find our special part. When we have found it, let us voluntarily and faithfully do it ; for every obstacle we overcome, every success we achieve tends to bring man closer to God." (Anne Sullivan, Biography.com). Having had to fight for every advantage in their lives, Keller and Sullivan broke barriers and overcame their disabilities, creating the mentality that people with disabilities or social disadvantages were not inferior, but deserved the same chances as any other person. With organizations now dedicated to their life's work, Sullivan and Keller have become heroes to the disadvantaged in our societies and have proven to be role models for those who work hard to overcome obstacles.