The Conquest of Mental Retardation

Burton Blatt, a native of New York City, earned his bachelor's degree at New York University, an MA at Teachers College Columbia University, and an EdD from Pennsylvania State University. While studying he was also teaching mentally retarded children. He became known nationally and internationally as an advocate for the rights of mentally retarded people. Friends who knew him best speak of him as a mentor and guide, as a teacher. Dr. Blatt was the author of 291 articles and books. He rose to national attention with the publication of Christmas in Purgatory in 1966, an expose of conditions in institutions for mentally retarded persons. He sent copies to all members of Congress. President Johnson called him requesting extra copies. In January of 1985, shortly after completing the manuscript for this book Burton Blatt died at the age of 57. Professionals in these fields and disabled people everywhere lost a true friend. His compassion and wisdom, however, live on in this book.