When did English language begin?
English is a West Germanic language that originated from the Anglo-Frisian dialects brought to Britain by Germanic tribes in the early medieval period. It is now the global lingua franca and the third most spoken language in the world.

Early Development
- The English language began to take shape around the 5th century AD when Germanic tribes settled in Britain.
- The language evolved over time, influenced by Latin, Norse, and French due to various invasions and interactions.

Old English Period (450-1150 AD)
- Known as the earliest form of the English language, Old English was spoken and written by the Anglo-Saxons.
- Beowulf, an epic poem, is one of the notable works from this period.

Middle English Period (1150-1500 AD)
- The Norman Conquest in 1066 brought French influence to English, leading to the Middle English period.
- Geoffrey Chaucer's "The Canterbury Tales" is a famous work from this era.

Modern English Period (1500-Present)
- The invention of the printing press in the 15th century helped standardize English spelling and grammar.
- The English language continued to evolve, leading to the Modern English we use today.
In conclusion, the English language began its journey in the 5th century AD with the arrival of Germanic tribes in Britain. Through centuries of development and influences from various languages, English has become a dominant global language spoken by millions worldwide.