Why did English become the world language? Simply explained

The reasons why English is the world language can be traced back to historical events and technological developments.

Why is English the world language? Historical roots and colonialism

The reason why English is the world language lies in the history of the British Empire. In the 17th and 18th centuries, Great Britain began to control trade routes and establish colonies in North America, Africa, India and Australia. This led to English becoming the administrative and everyday language in many parts of the world.

• British Empire: Great Britain used its colonial territories to expand the influence of the English language. In the colonies, such as India, English became the language of administration to facilitate British rule. This had long-term effects, as English retained an important role in these regions even after the end of the colonial era.

• Spread through trade: The expansion of the British Empire went hand in hand with the emergence of global trade routes. Traders and sailors used English as an international trade language. During this phase, maritime vocabulary shaped many English expressions that we still use today, such as “fathom out” or “the bitter end”.

• Linguistic influence: During colonization, English also adopted terms from other languages. For example, words like “pyjamas” come from Hindi or “kindergarten” from German. This constant language development helped English to adapt flexibly to new cultures and ways of life.

Technological progress and economy

English as a global language was further cemented by the industrial revolution and the rise of the United States as an economic superpower. The reasons for this are both varied and profound.

• Industrial Revolution: With the beginning of the industrial revolution in Great Britain in the 18th century, English became the language of technology and progress. Terms such as “engine” and “telegraph” found their way into everyday language. New machines and technologies required new vocabulary, which was adopted globally.

• Rise of the USA: English also established itself through the economic and cultural influence of the USA, at the latest by the end of the Second World War. American films, music and technology spread worldwide and with them the language. Many international organizations, from the UN to international aviation, use English as their official language.

• Digitization and the internet: English plays a central role in today’s digital world. Around 60% of all content on the internet is available in English, which further increases the importance of this language.