The origins of American Sign Language (ASL) and British Sign Language (BSL) are rooted in the historical contexts of their development, leading to the question of which came first. British Sign Language dates back to the early 18th century when it began to form in schools for the deaf in Britain. It was influenced by local signs and the communication methods used by the deaf community at that time.
On the other hand, American Sign Language was developed in the early 19th century. It originated from French Sign Language, brought over by a deaf Frenchman, Laurent Clerc, who co-founded the first American school for the deaf in Hartford, Connecticut, in 1817, alongside Thomas Hopkins Gallaudet. As ASL developed, it also incorporated influences from Martha’s Vineyard Sign Language and local signs from various regions in the United States.
In summary, British Sign Language emerged earlier than American Sign Language. BSL has its roots in the 18th century, while ASL developed later in the 19th century. However, both languages have evolved independently, leading to significant differences in grammar, vocabulary, and usage.