Chapter 5: Language By: Madalyn Smith, Alexander Karnish, Stephanie Konrady, Cheyenne Moore and Jacob Sikorski Key Issue One: Where are English-Language Speakers Distributed? Official language in 42 countries, more than any other language. 2 billion people--one-third of the world--live in a country where English is an official language. English Colonies England established colonies during the past four centuries and brought their language. Colonies Include: America in the 17th century, Ireland in 17th century, South Asia in mid-18th century (India), South Pacific in late 18th century (Australia, New Zealand), and southern Africa in late 19th century. Even if only a select few, typically the elite and colonial rulers could speak English, it became the official language.