English becomes the official language
Study note
After the Norman Conquest of 1066, the ruling classes in England spoke Norman French, while ordinary people continued to speak the older Anglo-Saxon language. Over time these languages mixed together to form the English we know, but for a long period French remained the language of the court and of government.
Gradually English grew in importance. By about the year 1400, English had become the preferred language of the royal court and of official and legal documents in England. This was a sign that English had become the main language of the country at every level. The date to remember is around 1400, when English, rather than French, became the language of court and official documents.
Memory tip: By 1400, English (not French) became the language of court and official documents.
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Question 1 of 1
By around which year had English become the preferred language of the court and official documents?
Show all questions and answers for English becomes the official language(1 question with explanations)
English becomes the official language: questions, answers and explanations
1. By around which year had English become the preferred language of the court and official documents?
- 1707
- 1066
- 1400
- 1215
Correct answer: 1400
By about 1400, English had become the preferred language of court and official documents.
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