Article
Why English Became "The Global Language"
English became dominant globally due to British colonialism, the rise of the United States, economic power, technological advancements, and the influence of American entertainment.
English became dominant globally due to British colonialism, the rise of the United States, economic power, technological advancements, and the influence of American entertainment.
Why did you decide to take a course at one of the most famous San Diego, CA, English language schools? You probably did so because you want to study in the USA or to find a better job.
English opens many opportunities you otherwise wouldn’t have. And you’re delighted to be part of this worldwide trend. But have you ever wondered why it’s so widely used today? The article below explains the factors that contributed to English becoming the lingua franca of the day. Read on!
We must analyze various historical, economic, and cultural factors to understand why English has become what it is today: the most widely spoken language in the world.
The British Empire, in its prime, had more colonies than any other country in human history, including Australia, New Zealand, India, and the United States. As a result of its vastness, it was described as “the empire on which the sun never sets.”
By 1913, 23% of the world's population lived on the territory of the British Empire. This fact paved the way for English to dominate the business and political spheres.
Although colonies gained their independence, the language remained because it deeply penetrated these countries' cultures. Today, it’s officially used in 67 countries around the world.
The United States used to be a major British colony once. It welcomed many immigrants seeking a better life for their families or a second chance in life. These people were mainly from Britain, so English soon became commonly used in this newly-found land.
The relationship between the colony and Great Britain was complex, and people soon sought independence. The USA's founding fathers recognized the potential of English, as it’d already been accepted as the tongue of the majority.
Upon gaining independence, the United States quickly became the largest economy in the world. After the Second World War, an immeasurable economic boom occurred, and it cultivated a fertile environment that allowed science and technology to develop rapidly.
For instance, computer science experienced incredible advancement, and English has become the primary programming language with all its terms and abbreviations in it. Two American computer scientists, Vinton Cerf and Bob Kahn, invented the Internet communication protocols. Today, the system is referred to as the Internet, and most pages are in English.
Alongside the economic and scientific progress in the United States, the entertainment industry developed too. Hollywood movies and American music are loved and respected worldwide, prompting people to learn the language.
David Crystal, a famous linguist, states that a language becomes dominant due to the power of the people who speak it. The economic power of the British Empire and the United States made English one of the most coveted languages nowadays.
If you’re looking for ways to improve your communication skills in English, or you’re a senior learner looking for a course that suits you best, you’ve come to the right address. The College of English Language offers numerous courses to increase your proficiency.
Our native teachers will share the most important dos and don’ts of perfecting English with you, and soon you’ll realize you’re more comfortable using it. Drop by today, pick a course you like, and work on your skills at one of the most amazing locations in San Diego Downtown. You’ll have an experience of a lifetime!
