A Brief History of the English Language in 500 Characters Part 1

The history of English traces back to ancient Germanic tribes migrating to England, where their language evolved. During the Middle Ages, the Norman Conquest led by William, Duke of Normandy, brought Norman influence to England, with French dominating. However, over time, English gradually resurged from French influence. In the modern era, English underwent standardization and development, spreading worldwide through England's colonialism. By the 18th century, with Britain's Industrial and Scientific Revolutions, English established itself as a global language of science, commerce, and culture. In the 20th century, with the rise of the United States and the dissolution of the British Empire, English further cemented its status as a primary world language. Today, English serves as the lingua franca in international business, education, science, and entertainment.