The Emergence and Development of American English

by William A. Kretzschmar, Jr.

Overview

This book tells the fascinating story of American English, tracing its emergence in the colonial period through to the present day. Written by a leading scholar, and drawing on data from the Linguistic Atlas Project, it explores how and why American English differs from British English, how it has been standardized, and how the USA's global political power has influenced its prominent status around the world. Illustrated with copious examples of language in use, it also surveys the various dialects of American English, including African American English, and explores social and cultural variation between English and other languages spoken in the United States. Each chapter explains the relevant terms and concepts from linguistics, and provides computer-based exercises. The author also introduces the basics of complexity science, showing how complex systems shape development and change in American English. Authoritative yet accessible, it will be essential reading for researchers and students alike.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781009161237
Publisher:	Cambridge University Press
Publication date:	09/30/2025
Pages:	320
Product dimensions:	6.00(w) x 1.25(h) x 9.00(d)

About the Author

William A. Kretzschmar, Jr. is the Harry and Jane Willson Professor in Humanities, University of Georgia. He edited the American Linguistic Atlas Project for thirty-four years, which led to his preparation of American pronunciations for the online Oxford English Dictionary.

Table of Contents

Figures and Tables; Acknowledgements; Introduction; 1. The Idea of American English; 2. Emergence; 3. Old World Origins for American English; 4. The Colonial Period (1600–1800); 5. The National Period (up to the Civil War, 1800–1865); 6. Gilded Age to World War II (1866–1945); 7. The Information Age (1945–present); 8. Regions and Localities; 9. African American English; 10. Social Differences in American English; 11. Heritage Languages and American English; 12. Standard American English; Appendices; Glossary, References; Index.