English, a language rich in history and diversity, has evolved over centuries to become a global lingua franca. Its journey from ancient roots to a language spoken by billions of people worldwide is a testament to its adaptability and resilience. This article explores the evolution of English, highlighting key milestones and influences that have shaped it into the language we know today.
I. Ancient Roots: Old English and the Anglo-Saxon Period
The English language has its origins in the ancient Germanic language spoken by the Anglo-Saxons who settled in Britain in the 5th century. This period marked the beginning of English as a distinct language, with Old English being its earliest form. Old English was heavily influenced by Old Norse, Latin, and Greek due to the Viking invasions and the presence of monasteries. Old English texts, such as the epic poem \
