William Stokoe

William Stokoe
Stokoe in 1993
Born(1919-07-21)July 21, 1919
DiedApril 4, 2000(2000-04-04) (aged 80)
Alma materCornell University (BA, PhD)
Known forRedefining language, establishing American Sign Language as a unique language, Stokoe notation
SpouseRuth Stokoe
Scientific career
FieldsEnglish
American Sign Language
InstitutionsWells College
Gallaudet University
Thesis The Work of the Redactors of Sir Launfal, Richard Coeur de Lion, and Sir Degaré

William Clarence “Bill” Stokoe Jr. (/ˈstk/ 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.