Definition
The Braille code named after its Inventor Louis Braille, consists of a grid of six dots, arranged in two columns of three dots each. By combining different dot patterns, Braille can represent the entire alphabet, numbers, musical notation, and even mathematical symbols. Each character is represented by a unique combination of dots, allowing individuals to read and write using their sense of touch.
It is often thought that the Braille system is a language designed for the blind and visually impaired. But in reality, it is a code, not a language, because the Braille system has no linguistic system. It is a tactile writing system with raised dots for use by blind or visually impaired people.
Its invention can be traced back the the early 1820. The official publication of his sytem took the form of book : Procédé pour écrire les Paroles, la Musique et le Plain-chant au moyen de points, à l’usage des aveugles et disposé pour eux. Paris: [Institution Royale des Jeunes Aveugles], 1829.
Early Braille
Before the braille system came to be the one we know today, it has undergone various modifications.
The omission of the letter “w” in braille’s system
Louis Braille’s system kept the same presentation throughout time. What mainly changed was the combinations and the additions of new one’s. The beauty of his system remains in its ability to be applied not only to write from a simple message to complicated calculation, to musical notes. This shows the extent of Louis Braille’s genius since to be able to do more than simple math or music in the writing of a sighted person this would be written on several lines but Braille manage to find a way to write everything in the space of a line.
As Francesco Lana de Terzi, Louis Braille forgot to add the letter “w” to his alphabet. However, we cannot really say that he forgot as this letter was not used in French at the time. The omission of the letter “w” was remarked by a blind English man, trying to use the braille to communicate in English. He then realised its abscence, as it is frequently used in English.
Final braille system as known today
As languages evolve, so does the Braille system. In 1950, the braille code is finally recognised as the universal language for blind individuals. An assembly reunites themselves every few years to discuss the possible new adaptations to be adopted. As new words enters the dictionnary, so does new combinations of braille. The braille code was adapted to several languages. A new abbreviated form of braille appears but this one is actually not much used today.