25 maps that illustrate the history of English

[Erik_Kowal]

These 25 maps — each accompanied by a supporting description — give a broad-brush illustration of how the English language has developed.

[tony h]

Erik : there should be a warning message on this point. I have just spent a ridiculously long time poring over the maps. And wondering about the statistics they represent.

Thank you.

[Erik_Kowal]

Sorry about the lack of a warning, Tony. But I'm glad you found the maps interesting. :)

[tony h]

The source for the tree http://www.ethnologue.com/ is also fascinating.

But further down the page is a map by jakubmarian. Going to that site shows some other interesting facts:
http://jakubmarian.com/is-that-always-r ... strictive/

and the one that generated discussion in the snug http://jakubmarian.com/wine-consumption ... er-capita/

[Edwin F Ashworth]

Just back from another jaunt to the SW, Erik. It was too cloudy to see you as we flew over. The back has almost recovered from the jolts on a beautifully scenic railroad that shall remain nameless.

There were UK and US citizens on the coach or bus as some called it, and we had some amusing discussions about language differences. The Americans were most amused to discover what 'trump' means in English. And 'I've dropped my purse' caused puzzled looks.

Fascinating statistics, lovely maps. But which one shows the way out of the Klondike Bluffs?