Standard languages originated as local dialects, or combinations of several dialects. They became more widely used, not for any inherent qualities they possessed, but because of the socially- or politically-dominant position of the people who spoke them. Once a language has been adopted as a medium of expression in literature, government, education, and other specialised areas, it becomes the standard or "official" language.

Standard English is the variety of English used in publishing, by the media, and which is normally taught in schools. It is also the variety normally spoken by formally – educated people.

Whether English is spoken in North America, the Caribbean or Europe, there exist standard and non-standard variations. And, within Standard English, there are a small number of regional differences which tend to attract attention. Standard Scottish English is not the same as Standard British English, for example, or Standard Canadian English is somewhat different from Standard American English.

Graphic Courtesy: Language and Power

The history of the english language is also
the history of the different groups of people
who invaded and took power in England