7.English as a Global Language and Its Influence on Indigenous Languages

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English is often considered a global language due to its wide use in business, science, education, and international communication. It is spoken by millions as a first or second language and is the official language in many countries. However, the spread of English has also impacted indigenous languages, especially in countries like Canada and Australia.

In Canada, many Indigenous languages such as Cree, Inuktitut, and Ojibwe are at risk of disappearing. Similarly, in Australia, hundreds of Aboriginal languages have been lost or are endangered due to the dominance of English. Young generations often grow up speaking only English, while native languages are no longer passed down. This leads to a loss of cultural identity, traditions, and knowledge.

At the same time, English can be a tool for education and global opportunities. Efforts are now being made to preserve and revitalize Indigenous languages through bilingual education and community programs. Media and technology are also used to document and teach these languages. The challenge is to support global communication while protecting linguistic and cultural diversity. Balancing the role of English with respect for Indigenous languages is essential for a more inclusive and multicultural world.

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English has become a global language, widely used in business, education, science, and international communication. It is spoken by millions of people and taught in schools around the world. With the rise of technology, English has also become central in computer-assisted language learning (CALL), virtual learning environments (VLEs), and other digital tools. Software applications, including both general programs like word processors and language-specific tools, support learners in developing skills through interactive and engaging methods.

However, while English connects people globally, it also affects local and Indigenous languages. In countries like Canada and Australia, many Indigenous languages are endangered due to the dominance of English in schools and media. This can lead to the loss of cultural heritage and traditional knowledge. At the same time, technology, including VLEs and corpus linguistics, offers opportunities to document and revitalize these languages.

Digital platforms can be used not only to learn English, but also to preserve and teach Indigenous languages. The challenge lies in finding a balance between embracing the benefits of English and supporting linguistic diversity. Through thoughtful integration of CALL and IT, both global communication and local identity can be supported.

8. Some Facts About Slavery in America

Slavery was a major part of American history, especially in the southern states. It began in the early 1600s when African people were brought to America by force to work on plantations. Slaves worked mainly in agriculture, especially growing cotton, tobacco, and sugar. They had no rights and were considered the property of their owners. Families were often separated and punished harshly if they tried to escape.

By the mid-1800s, millions of African Americans were enslaved in the United States. Some people in the North began to fight against slavery, leading to rising tensions between the North and South. This conflict was one of the causes of the American Civil War (1861–1865).

In 1863, President Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation, which declared that slaves in the rebel states were free. Slavery officially ended in 1865 with the 13th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution. However, former slaves still faced racism, poverty, and unfair laws for many years. The history of slavery has left a deep impact on American society, and its effects can still be seen today.