The history of left-handedness can provide teachers and parents a better understanding of left-handed children and give those children more pride in their difference. No child should be made to feel that he or she is abnormal because of using the left hand, although some specific instruction for these students is necessary in handwriting. Many books contain fascinating stories, facts, and figures about the quirks of being a "lefty," but once there were many biases against left-handers. In recent years such extreme bias has disappeared, in part because research has shown that most people have some degree of left preference. About 10% of Americans are left-handed (9.7% of boys and 12.5% of girls). Many famous left-handed people include American President Bill Clinton, Ringo Starr, Leonardo Da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Babe Ruth. (Contains 12 references.) (CR)