What languages did convict speak?

It's impossible to say definitively what language "convict" spoke, as it was not a singular language but rather a diverse group of people from various backgrounds. The term "convict" refers to people who were convicted of crimes and transported to penal colonies, primarily in Australia, but also in other places like America and Africa.

Here's a breakdown of the complexities:

* Diverse origins: Convicts came from all corners of the British Isles and even Europe. They spoke a variety of English dialects, as well as other languages like Irish, Gaelic, Welsh, French, German, and more.

* Pidgin and Creole: In the harsh environments of the colonies, convicts from different language backgrounds needed to communicate. This led to the development of pidgin and creole languages, which were simplified mixtures of English and other languages.

* "Convict slang": A unique slang developed among convicts, which combined elements of English with words from other languages and invented terms. This slang served as a means of communication and also as a way to distinguish themselves from the free population.

* Evolution over time: As generations passed, the language of convicts in Australia, for example, evolved into a distinct Australian English, with unique vocabulary, grammar, and pronunciation.

Therefore, it's inaccurate to say that convicts spoke a single "convict language." They spoke a variety of languages and dialects, developed pidgin and creole languages, and used a unique slang. This linguistic diversity reflects the complex and fascinating history of the convict era.