8 Historical Figures Who Had Hearing Loss

Hearing loss has existed for as long as people have—and some of the most influential figures in history lived with it. From revolutionary thinkers to artists and leaders, many world changers didn’t just navigate hearing loss—they thrived in spite of it.

Here are 8 historical figures who had hearing loss and left an undeniable mark on the world.

1. Ludwig van Beethoven (1770–1827)

Perhaps the most famous historical figure with hearing loss, Beethoven began losing his hearing in his late 20s and was almost completely deaf by the time he composed some of his greatest works. Despite the struggle, he wrote masterpieces like his Ninth Symphony after he could no longer hear the music with his ears—only with his mind. He’s proof that creativity and passion transcend physical limitations.

2. Helen Keller (1880–1968)

Deaf and blind from a young age due to illness, Helen Keller became a trailblazing author, lecturer, and political activist. With the help of her teacher Anne Sullivan, Keller learned to communicate using tactile sign language and became one of the most well-known advocates for people with disabilities in history.

3. Thomas Edison (1847–1931)

You probably know him as the inventor of the lightbulb—but did you know Edison was mostly deaf? He lost his hearing in both ears as a child, possibly due to scarlet fever or a train accident. Edison credited his hearing loss with helping him focus on his work, calling it a “blessing in disguise.”

4. Francisco Goya (1746–1828)

Often called the father of modern art, Spanish painter Francisco Goya lost his hearing in his 40s after a mysterious illness. His hearing loss marked a turning point in his work—his paintings became darker, more emotional, and more politically charged. Many of his most powerful pieces were created during his years of deafness.

5. Juliette Gordon Low (1860–1927)

Founder of the Girl Scouts of the USA, Juliette Gordon Low developed severe hearing loss after a series of ear infections and an accident involving rice at her wedding (yes, really!). She didn’t let it stop her—she went on to create one of the most empowering organizations for girls and young women in history.

6. Alexander Graham Bell (1847–1922)

Ironically, the inventor of the telephone spent much of his life working with the Deaf community. Bell’s mother and wife were both deaf, and he taught speech to deaf students using “visible speech” methods. While not deaf himself, his personal connection to hearing loss deeply influenced his life’s work.

7. Harriet Martineau (1802–1876)

One of the first female sociologists and a pioneering writer, Harriet Martineau lost much of her hearing in childhood. She used an ear trumpet to hear and often wrote about the experiences of people with disabilities. She became a fierce advocate for education, women’s rights, and reform—helping pave the way for modern social science.

8. Jean Massieu (1772–1846)

Born deaf in 18th-century France, Jean Massieu became one of the first Deaf educators in Europe. He was a student of the famed Abbé Sicard and went on to become a teacher himself—helping shape early Deaf education. His work directly influenced Laurent Clerc, who later helped establish the first school for the Deaf in the United States.

Hearing Loss Is Part of History—And Humanity

These historical figures show us that hearing loss doesn’t stop brilliance, progress, or change. Whether they used sign language, hearing devices, or sheer determination, they each shaped history in powerful, lasting ways.

Your Future Starts With Hearing Health

If you’re experiencing hearing loss, you’re in good company—and there’s never been a better time to seek support. At Beltone, we offer free hearing screenings and personalized care to help you stay connected, confident, and in control of your story.

Schedule your free hearing screening today—and step into your own legacy.