Germanic tribes, including the Angles, Saxons, and Jutes, migrate to Britain, bringing their languages and culture.

The oral tradition dominates communication; early Germanic runes are used for inscriptions.

Christian missionaries begin converting Anglo-Saxons to Christianity, leading to the introduction of Latin script and the spread of written literature.

Alfred the Great commissions the Anglo-Saxon Chronicle, an important historical record written in Old English.

The Norman Conquest in 1066 brings French influence to England, leading to a blend of Anglo-Saxon and Norman French, resulting in Middle English.

Geoffrey Chaucer's Canterbury Tales (late 14th century) becomes a landmark work, showcasing the development of Middle English literature.

The Renaissance sparks renewed interest in classical languages and literature, influencing English vocabulary.

William Caxton introduces the printing press to England in 1476, facilitating the standardization of English spelling and grammar.