English is a West Germanic language that originated in Anglo-Saxon England. As a result of the military, economic, scientific, political and cultural influence of the British Empire during the 18th, 19th and 20th centuries and of the United States since the late 19th century, it has become the lingua franca in many parts of the world. It is used extensively as a second language and as an official language in Commonwealth countries and many international organizations.

Historically, English originated from several dialects, now called Old English, which were brought to Great Britain by Anglo-Saxon settlers beginning in the 5th century. The language was heavily influenced by the Old Norse language of Viking invaders.

Countries in order of total speakers
1 United States214.809.000
2 United Kingdom 58.200.000
3 Canada 17.694.830
4 Avustralia 15.581.334
5 İreland 4.200.000
6 South Africa Republic 3.673.203
7 New Zeland 3.500.000
8 Singapour 665.087