Why Did the United States Copy English Names?

The United States, often referred to simply as 'America,' has a rich linguistic heritage with its roots firmly planted in the English language. Despite sharing many similarities with the United Kingdom, particularly in language, the reasons for this linguistic overlap extend far beyond mere similarity. In this article, we will explore the historical and cultural reasons behind why the United States adopted English place names, and discuss how immigration influenced this practice.

Historical Context

When the United States declared independence from Great Britain in 1776, it inherited a wealth of cultural and linguistic ties with its former colonizer. The English language remained as the official language of government, education, and society. However, it's important to note that England and America are not the same, despite their shared linguistic roots. The United Kingdom is a sovereign country consisting of four nations: England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, while the United States is a federal republic comprised of 50 states.

Cultural and Linguistic Similarities

One might argue that due to the shared language, it is inevitable that the United States would adopt many English place names. This argument holds some truth, but it doesn't fully explain the depth and breadth of the naming patterns seen in the U.S.

Reasons for Adopting English Names

1. Immigration and Familiarity: The wave of immigration from the British Isles in the 19th and early 20th centuries had a significant impact on the naming of places in the U.S. Many immigrants from England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland chose to name their new settlements after places they were familiar with. This practice was not limited to the United States; it also occurred in other English-speaking colonies and territories.

2. Economic and Practical Reasons: After the American Revolutionary War, many settlements and towns established a practical need for clear and recognizable names. Naming towns after familiar English places provided a sense of continuity and cultural connection. Robert Arnett, a historian specializing in colonial America, notes that settlers often named their towns after places in England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland because it made it easier for them to remember and communicate.

Examples of English-Styled Names in the U.S.

Many places in the U.S. bear names that are recognizably English. For example, some states and cities have names that directly mirror or are derived from English places. Some examples include: