This literature review took place during 2004, and shows that the braille debate over Grade 1 and Grade 2 has been ongoing for more than 70 years. Given the span of time and a remit that covered the English-speaking world, a chronological approach was taken, focusing on the two main strands of policy and empirical research, from the early 20th century to the present day. Most of the material originates from the USA, Canada and the UK. Commissioned by the Royal National Institute of the Blind (RNIB), the review focuses on a single aspect of the code: the use of uncontracted braille, also referred to as Grade 1, and the use of contracted braille, which is commonly referred to as Grade 2. The review is concerned with English literary braille and does not address issues surrounding specialist mathematical, foreign language or scientific codes. In the papers reviewed, the important roles of specialist committees and international organizations are acknowledged, as well as the significant contributions made by individuals. The full report is lodged within the RNIB Research Library.