The Evolution of African American English: How Slaves Learned to Speak English in Enslavement

The history of African American English (AAE) is deeply intertwined with the complex narrative of slavery. Contrary to popular belief, the process of learning to speak English among enslaved individuals was not a straightforward or passive one. This article delves into how slaves acquired English, the challenges they faced, and the misconceptions surrounding AAE.

Initial Learning and On-the-Job Teaching

The process of learning to speak English for newly arrived slaves was not formalized or institutionalized. Instead, it was often a haphazard and informal process driven by necessity and immediate situational demands. Overseers, often with limited patience, conveyed basic instructions through shouting and physical sanctions such as whips. Furthermore, slaves had to pick up the language on their own over time as they interacted with their masters and fellow slaves. This environment fostered a pragmatic approach to learning, where the most essential terms and phrases were quickly adopted to navigate daily life.

Bastardized Forms of English and Long-Term Influence

By the time of the American Civil War, the transatlantic slave trade had been abolished for nearly a century, and many slaves were native to the American continent for several generations. This prolonged exposure to English, combined with intermarriage and the influx of various European dialects, resulted in the emergence of bastardized forms of English. These localized variations served as the primary language for many enslaved individuals before and after the war. The distinct nature of these dialects reflects the rich cultural and linguistic heritage of the African diaspora.

Education and Misconceptions

Despite the common belief, it was illegal to formally educate slaves in the United States. However, some slaves still managed to learn to read and write, often through covert means or with the tacit approval of some benevolent masters. The concern among slaveholders was that literacy could foster dissatisfaction and desires for freedom among their workforce. This, however, does not diminish the effort and talent displayed by many African American slaves in mastering the English language.

Myths and Misunderstandings about African American English

The article The Buck Breaker mentions the cruel and degrading initiation practices such as "buck breaking" and the belief that AAE is a legitimate form of English is often questioned. Many leftists or pro-African American language advocates often claim that AAE is just as legitimate as any other dialect. While AAE indeed carries its own rich linguistic heritage and cultural significance, it is a bastardized mix of English and African languages rather than an independent linguistic system.

It is worth noting that every American English dictionary and academic linguist agrees that AAE is ultimately a specific variety of English. Despite this, there is a perception among some groups that AAE should be accepted as a fully equal form of English. However, this view often leads to confusion and misuse of the language. In reality, AAE is a distinct dialect that reflects the historical experiences and cultural identity of African Americans. It is important to acknowledge its unique features while appreciating the standard forms of English that are widely used and validated.

Language Acquisition Through Immersion

The article emphasizes the significance of environmental immersion in learning a new language. For example, when working in the restaurant industry, the author found it necessary to learn Spanish to better communicate with staff members. Similarly, when faced with groups speaking different languages, one must adapt and learn the necessary vocabulary to facilitate effective communication. This principle extends to the learning process of AAE, where language is learned through daily interactions and immersion, much like any other dialect.

The Importance of Proper English

The author advocates for mastery of proper English, noting that every black child should learn to speak English correctly. This is a significant statement, reflecting the belief that English proficiency is crucial for success and integration in American society. However, the article also critically examines the quality of education in certain urban areas, suggesting that in some inner-city schools, the quality of English education may be subpar. Therefore, while it is important to strive for proper English, it is equally important to recognize and address these educational disparities.

Conclusion: The Future of Language Learning

The journey of African American English from its roots in slavery through to its current forms reveals a fascinating narrative of resilience, adaptation, and cultural identity. The ability of enslaved individuals to learn and adapt to a new language in the face of adversity is a testament to human ingenuity and perseverance. Moving forward, it is crucial to understand and appreciate the complexities of language learning, recognizing AAE as a valid and unique dialect within the broader framework of the English language.