When America was being formed, didnt they vote to make German the national language, but it did not pass.?

Question

I am pretty sure that in the late 1700's they voted to make German the national language to severe all ties with England. The vote failed and everyone continued to speak English. Does anyone know if this is correct? Does anyone have a link to prove this?

Answer 1

No, Congress has never voted to make any language our official language. In 1795 a group of legislators proposed that sets of laws be published in both German and English. This proposal was never even voted on, but the motion to adjourn and consider at a later date was defeated by 1 vote.

Answer 2

I have never heard that before. But since most of the people coming to the "New World" were from England and not Germany, why would German even be considered as a choice for the national language of America. I don't understand that, not saying what you are saying is not true. I will see who else answers this with a link to check it out.

Thanks, James F, I just checked out your link. That should answer this person's question.

Answer 3

Nope.

We, the USA, actually has never had a national language until recently (within the last month) when Congress created legislation making English our national language.

Answer 4

By ONE vote, we speak English and not German -- I've heard of that too.