Though it comes as a surprise to many, the United States does not have an official language. Although it is spoken throughout the country, a sizable portion of the population either does not speak English at all or with limited proficiency.

Arguments are made in support and opposition of declaring an official language. While some citizens believe it would encourage a common understanding among residents, opponents cite Anglocentrism as a detriment to diversity and cultural acceptance.

Some States and Territories have adopted bilingual legislations that recognize different local groups. These include:

Louisiana (English & French)

New Mexico (English & Spanish)

Hawaii (English & Hawaiian)

Puerto Rico (English & Spanish)

Guam (English & Chamorro)

American Samoa (English & Samoan)

UNITED STATES LANGUAGE FACTS

• Prior to the arrival of European explorers, there were over 300 different dialects spoken in what is now North America.
• Until the 1950s, Pennsylvania was bilingual, with English and German being the official languages.
• The Northern Mariana Islands are the only United States Territory that is officially trilingual, having adopted English, Chamorro and Carolinian.
• Many residents of Hawaii consider Hawaiian Creole—or Hawaiian Pidgin—to be an unofficial state language.

Other languages common in the United States include Spanish, Chinese, French and German among others that reflect the immigrant population.