Introduction
Following the American Civil War, many Americans of Protestant northern and western European heritage became concerned about the increase of immigrants from other regions. During this era, there was a strong push for immigrants to assimilate by learning English. For deaf people, this movement was reflected in the expectation of speaking English, being educated through the oral method instead of sign language, and being dissuaded from marrying other deaf people. With these pressures, Olof Hanson emerged as a conspicuous leader in the deaf community, responding to the changes and shaping the future. As an architect, advocate, and man of faith and family, the life of Olof Hanson reflects some of the struggles that deaf people faced during his lifetime.