* Sign language is not a singular entity. There are hundreds of different sign languages around the world, each with its own unique history and development.
* Sign language is an organic form of communication. It evolves naturally as people interact and find ways to express themselves visually.
* Early evidence is limited. While there are cave paintings and other artifacts that suggest early forms of communication, it's difficult to determine if they represent sign language or other forms of non-verbal communication.
However, we can say with certainty that sign language has existed for centuries, if not millennia. Here's what we do know:
* Sign language has been used by Deaf communities for a long time. There is evidence of sign language use in ancient civilizations, including in Greece and Rome.
* Sign language has been documented and studied for centuries. The first known manual alphabet was developed in the 16th century, and sign language was officially recognized as a legitimate form of communication in the 18th century.
* Sign language continues to evolve today. As new technologies emerge and societies change, sign languages adapt and grow, reflecting the needs and experiences of the Deaf community.
While we can't say definitively when sign language began, it's clear that it is a rich and complex form of communication with a long and fascinating history.