Here's what we *do* know:
* Sign language is ancient: Evidence suggests that deaf people have been using sign language for millennia. Ancient cave paintings and historical accounts offer hints that structured visual communication existed.
* It's a natural human language: Just like spoken languages, sign languages evolved organically in different communities. There's no single "original" sign language.
* It's not a universal language: Different communities and regions developed their own sign languages. While there are some similarities, they are not mutually intelligible.
Some key points about the history of sign language:
* The 18th century: The emergence of sign language education in Europe began to formalize and document sign languages. The Abbe de l'Epee in France developed a system of sign, and the first deaf school was established in Paris.
* The 19th century: The American Sign Language (ASL) we know today began to take shape in the US, heavily influenced by French Sign Language. Sign language schools were established, and the "oralism" movement (emphasizing spoken language) gained prominence.
* The 20th and 21st centuries: A shift away from oralism towards a more inclusive approach to deaf education led to a renewed appreciation for sign language. The Deaf community's advocacy helped ensure recognition and preservation of sign languages.
In conclusion: Sign language has a long and rich history, but its exact origins are lost to time. The key is to understand that sign language is not a single, unified language, but a diverse collection of languages that have evolved independently across cultures.