English was first spoken around the 5th century AD with the arrival of Germanic tribes in Britain.
The Origins of English
The story of the English language begins with the invasion of Britain by three Germanic tribes: the Angles, the Saxons, and the Jutes. These tribes crossed the North Sea from what is now Denmark and northern Germany during the 5th century AD, laying the foundation for what we know today as the English language.
Key Contributing Tribes
- Angles: The Angles were one of the primary groups.
- Saxons: The Saxons also significantly contributed to the formation of the language.
- Jutes: The Jutes were another important tribe involved.
Timeline
| Time Period | Event |
|---|---|
| 5th Century AD | Germanic tribes invade Britain. |
| Subsequent Years | Gradual evolution into Old English (Anglo-Saxon). |
This initial form of English, often referred to as Old English or Anglo-Saxon, evolved over time and is notably different from modern English.
