The transition from speaking British English to what is commonly known as American English was a gradual process that occurred over several centuries, beginning with the colonization of North America in the early 17th century.
When the first English settlers arrived in North America, they brought with them various dialects of British English, reflecting the linguistic diversity of the British Isles. As these settlers established permanent colonies, their language continued to evolve and adapt to the new environment and the influences of other languages, such as Native American languages and later, languages of other immigrant groups.
Over time, regional variations in speech patterns emerged due to geographical isolation and the influx of diverse linguistic influences. These regional dialects eventually coalesced into distinct American English dialects.
During the 18th and 19th centuries, there were several factors that contributed to the development of American English as a distinct variety from British English:
Geographic Isolation: The geographical distance between the American colonies and Great Britain led to less direct linguistic contact, allowing American English to develop independently.
Language Contact: American English was influenced by the languages of other immigrant groups, such as Dutch, German, French, Spanish, and Native American languages. This interaction with other languages shaped the vocabulary and pronunciation in different regions.
Cultural and Political Factors: The American Revolution and the subsequent establishment of the United States as an independent nation fostered a sense of national identity, further contributing to linguistic differentiation.
Noah Webster's Influence: In the early 19th century, lexicographer Noah Webster played a significant role in standardizing American English through his dictionaries and spelling reforms, which led to some spelling differences between American and British English.
Despite these differences, American and British English still share a common linguistic heritage and have many similarities. It's essential to remember that language is constantly evolving, and variations within both American and British English continue to develop today.