The Unique Origins of American Sign Language: A Blend of French, English, and Navajo

American Sign Language (ASL) is often misunderstood as simply a signed version of English. This misconception overlooks the rich history and diverse influences that shaped ASL into a distinct language. In reality, ASL is a unique blend of French, English, and Navajo elements, making it a fascinating example of linguistic and cultural fusion. Understanding these origins helps us appreciate ASL not just as a communication tool but as a vibrant language with its own grammar, syntax, and cultural significance.

How ASL Developed from French Sign Language

The roots of ASL trace back to the early 19th century when French Sign Language (LSF) played a crucial role in its formation. In 1817, Thomas Hopkins Gallaudet, an American educator, traveled to Europe to learn methods for teaching deaf students. He met Laurent Clerc, a deaf teacher from France who used LSF. Together, they established the first American school for the deaf in Hartford, Connecticut, in 1817.

LSF heavily influenced the signs and structure of early ASL. Many signs in ASL today have clear connections to French Sign Language, especially in hand shapes and movements. However, ASL did not simply copy LSF. It evolved by mixing with local sign systems and gestures used by deaf communities in the United States.

The Role of English in Shaping ASL

While ASL is not a signed form of English, the English language influenced ASL in several ways. English-speaking deaf communities contributed vocabulary and concepts, especially as deaf education expanded across the U.S. Over time, some English words were adapted into ASL signs, and fingerspelling borrowed the English alphabet to spell out names and technical terms.

Despite these influences, ASL has its own grammar and syntax that differ significantly from English. For example, ASL often uses a topic-comment sentence structure, where the subject is introduced first, followed by the comment or action. This structure contrasts with the typical subject-verb-object order in English.

Navajo Contributions to ASL

The Navajo influence on ASL is less well-known but equally important. During World War II, Navajo Code Talkers used their native language to create an unbreakable code for the U.S. military. This highlighted the power of indigenous languages and inspired greater recognition of Native American cultures.

In some regions, Navajo sign language and gestures blended with ASL, especially in areas with significant Navajo populations. This blending introduced unique signs and expressions that enriched ASL’s vocabulary and cultural depth. The Navajo contribution also reflects the broader theme of ASL as a language shaped by diverse communities, each adding their own cultural and linguistic elements.

An open American Sign Language dictionary showing signs and illustrations

What Makes ASL Different from English

Many people assume ASL is just English in sign form, but this is not true. ASL is a fully developed language with unique features:

• Grammar and Syntax: ASL uses facial expressions, body movements, and spatial grammar to convey meaning. This differs from English sentence structure.

• Vocabulary: ASL has signs that do not have direct English equivalents, reflecting cultural concepts and experiences unique to the Deaf community.

• Visual-Spatial Nature: ASL relies on visual cues and space to express ideas, making it a three-dimensional language.

  
  

These differences highlight why ASL cannot be learned simply by translating English words into signs. It requires understanding its grammar, cultural context, and expressive techniques.

The Importance of Recognizing ASL’s Origins

Recognizing ASL as a blend of French, English, and Navajo influences helps break down misconceptions and promotes respect for the language and its users. It also underscores the importance of cultural diversity in language development.

For educators, this knowledge encourages teaching ASL as a language in its own right, not just a tool for English communication. For learners, it opens the door to appreciating the rich history and cultural significance behind the signs.

Practical Examples of ASL’s Unique Features

• Fingerspelling: Borrowed from English, fingerspelling spells out words letter by letter, often used for names or technical terms.

• Non-Manual Signals: Facial expressions and head movements can change the meaning of signs, such as raising eyebrows to indicate a question.

• Spatial Grammar: Signers use the space around them to show relationships between people or objects, like placing signs in different locations to represent different subjects.

  
  

These examples show how ASL combines elements from multiple languages and cultures to create a dynamic and expressive form of communication.

Supporting Deaf Culture Through Language Awareness

Understanding ASL’s origins also supports Deaf culture, which values language as a core part of identity. ASL is more than a communication method; it connects Deaf individuals to their history, community, and shared experiences.

Promoting awareness about ASL’s unique background encourages inclusivity and respect. It helps hearing people learn how to communicate effectively and appreciate the richness of Deaf culture.