-
450
Old English
During the 5th century AD, Britain was invaded by three Germanic tribes: the Angles, Saxons and Jutes. At the time, most British inhabitants spoke a common Celtic language, but the tribes overpowered them and forced Celtic speakers to move to Wales, Scotland and Ireland. The Angles spoke 'Englisc' which then evolved into 'English'. This became the primary language for those living in so-called 'Engaland'.
450-1150 -
1150
Middle English
William the Conqueror, Duke of Normandy invaded Britain in 1066 in a battle known as the Norman Conquest. This led to the spread of the Anglo-Norman dialect, which along with Latin and Anglo-Saxon became one of the most popular languages of its time. Many French terms and phrases that we use today were introduced into the English language during this period.
1150-1500 -
1500
Early Modern English
The Renaissance brought about many changes to the country, including to language. Latin and Greek words and phrases became more commonplace.One of the major innovators of the English language at this time was William Shakespeare. Shakespeare is responsible for inventing over 2,000 new words and phrases in his lifetime.
1500-1700 -
Late Modern English
Late Modern English developed between 1800 and 2000. From 1800 English vocabulary quickly broadened whilst spelling and grammar remained unchanged. Almost half of the scientific and technological outputs between 1750 and 1900 were written in English, exposing more people than ever before to the language. The increase in global trade due to the rise of the British Empire meant that traders came across many new words.
1900-present.
