* Early American English: Even before the United States was formed, colonists were using slang. The development of American English was influenced by various factors, including:
* Dialects from different regions of England: Colonists brought their own regional accents and phrases.
* Interaction with Native American languages: Some words and phrases were adopted or adapted from Native American languages.
* Unique experiences in the New World: New circumstances and environments led to the creation of new words and expressions.
* 18th and 19th Centuries: Slang becomes more prominent during this period. Factors like:
* The American Revolution: Revolutionary rhetoric and events fueled new expressions and slang.
* Frontier life: Pioneers and settlers developed a distinct vocabulary to describe their experiences.
* Immigration: Influxes of immigrants from different countries introduced new words and phrases.
* Urbanization: Cities provided fertile ground for slang to flourish, as people from diverse backgrounds interacted.
Key points:
* Slang is dynamic: It constantly changes and evolves with cultural shifts, technology, and other factors.
* No single point of origin: Slang has been present in American English since its inception, and its origins are intertwined with the development of the language itself.
So, while we can't pinpoint a specific date, it's safe to say that Americans have been using slang for centuries, with its roots deeply embedded in the history of the country and its language.