* Location: Martha's Vineyard, Massachusetts, USA
* Time: Late 18th and 19th centuries
Here's a breakdown:
* Early Influence: Deaf individuals on Martha's Vineyard formed a unique sign language community due to a high incidence of hereditary deafness. This "Martha's Vineyard Sign Language" served as a foundation for later developments.
* Formalization: In the mid-19th century, schools for the deaf emerged in the US, primarily adopting the French Sign Language. However, the influence of the Martha's Vineyard community, along with various other factors, led to a distinct sign language evolving in American classrooms.
* Emergence of ASL: By the late 19th century, American Sign Language, distinct from French Sign Language, was recognized as the primary communication system for deaf communities in the US.
It's important to note that ASL's origins are not a singular event but rather a complex process of development and evolution, drawing influence from various sources, including:
* Martha's Vineyard Sign Language: Foundation and unique features.
* French Sign Language: Significant initial influence.
* Indigenous Sign Languages: Potential contributions.
* Natural Sign Language Development: Emergence of new signs and grammar within deaf communities.
Therefore, while Martha's Vineyard holds a prominent place in ASL's history, the language's origins are a blend of cultural, linguistic, and societal factors, making it a truly unique and vibrant language.