The Origin of the English Language and the Historical Periods of its Development Summary This article illuminates the historical path taken by the development of the English language. The history of the English language is connected with the arrival of the Anglo-Saxon tribes. The centuries of invasions, economic and political relations with other states have undergone certain changes in the language. The development of the renaissance period in the Middle Ages also brought innovations to the language. The invention of printing brought to the English language a standard of literary style. Dryden's and Jonathan Swift's desire to perfect the language was partially counterbalanced by Samuel Johnson's Dictionary (1755) and Robert Louth's Grammar (published 1761). Received Standard English is currently an accepted standard of speech in Great Britain. Key words: Anglo-Saxon tribes, ancient English historical periods, ancient English language, dialects of the Middle English period, Renaissance period, "Americanisms", dictionary of modern English, accepted standard English