In which year did deaf education begin with a focus on speech?

The correct year when deaf education began to focus on speech rather than manual communication methods, such as sign language, is the early 1800s. This period marked a significant shift in educational approaches for the Deaf community, largely influenced by the rise of oralism, which prioritized teaching deaf individuals to speak and read lips rather than using sign language as a primary mode of communication.

The approaches initiated in the 1800s were grounded in a belief that deaf individuals could be integrated more effectively into hearing society through the development of speech skills. This transition was propelled by various educators and methods, notably those promoted by figures such as Thomas Gallaudet and the impact of European influences on American education.

In contrast, the years listed earlier, such as the 1500s and 1600s, were primarily characterized by limited understanding and educational options for the Deaf community. Manual communication was more predominant during these times, and significant educational advances specifically focused on speech did not emerge until the 19th century. Thus, the emphasis on speech in deaf education aligns with developments occurring in the 1800s rather than any of the earlier periods.