William Stokoe | |
|---|---|
 Stokoe in 1993 | |
| Born | July 21, 1919 Lancaster, New Hampshire, U.S. |
| Died | April 4, 2000 (aged 80) Chevy Chase, Maryland, U.S. |
| Alma mater | Cornell University (BA, PhD) |
| Known for | Redefining language, establishing American Sign Language as a unique language, Stokoe notation |
| Spouse | Ruth Stokoe |
| Scientific career | |
| Fields | English American Sign Language |
| Institutions | Wells College Gallaudet University |
| Thesis | The Work of the Redactors of Sir Launfal, Richard Coeur de Lion, and Sir Degaré |
William Clarence “Bill” Stokoe Jr. (/ˈstoʊkiː/ STOH-kee; July 21, 1919 – April 4, 2000) was an American linguist and a long-time professor at Gallaudet University. His research on American Sign Language (ASL) revolutionized the understanding of ASL in the United States and sign languages throughout the world. Stokoe's work led to a widespread recognition that sign languages are true languages, exhibiting syntax and morphology, and are not only systems of gesture.