* Sign language is an ancient form of communication: It likely predates written language and even spoken language in many cultures.
* No written records exist from that time: The earliest evidence of sign language comes from ancient cave paintings and artifacts, but those don't reveal who the first users were.
* Sign language is diverse: Different cultures developed their own unique sign languages. It's highly likely that sign language emerged independently in many parts of the world.
Instead of looking for a single "first person," it's more accurate to understand that:
* Sign language has been used for thousands of years.
* It's a natural form of communication that evolved alongside spoken languages.
* Many different cultures have developed their own distinct sign languages.
While we can't pinpoint a single origin, it's fascinating to consider the rich history of sign language and its important role in human communication.