* English: This was the dominant language, brought by the English settlers who founded the colony. It was the language of government, commerce, and most social interaction.
* French: A significant number of French Huguenots (Protestants who fled religious persecution in France) settled in South Carolina, particularly around Charleston. They spoke French, which was also used in some commercial dealings.
* German: German immigrants, primarily from the Palatinate region of Germany, also settled in South Carolina. They spoke German, which remained a significant language within their communities.
* Indigenous Languages: Native American tribes, such as the Cherokee, Catawba, and Yamassee, inhabited the region. They spoke their own languages, which were still in use but were losing ground to English due to assimilation and displacement.
* African Languages: A large number of enslaved Africans were brought to South Carolina, many of whom spoke various African languages. These languages were largely suppressed, although some elements may have survived in pidgin forms or influenced the pronunciation of English.
It's important to note that the linguistic landscape was complex and varied across different regions and social groups. While English was the most widely spoken language, other languages continued to be used and preserved within communities.