* Limited Records: We have very limited records from that time period. While there are some written documents, they don't provide detailed population figures or language demographics.
* Evolution of English: English in 1000 AD was significantly different from modern English. It was a mix of Old English, Old Norse, and other influences, making it hard to definitively classify who would have been considered a speaker.
* Geographical Spread: The geographical spread of English speakers was relatively small. It was primarily confined to England and parts of what is now Scotland.
However, we can make some educated guesses:
* Population of England: Estimates suggest the population of England in 1000 AD was around 2 million.
* Language Distribution: While not everyone in England spoke English, it was likely the dominant language.
* Other Languages: Other languages spoken in the British Isles at the time included Welsh, Gaelic, and Norse.
Therefore, while we can't give a precise number, it's likely that hundreds of thousands, if not millions, spoke English in 1000 AD.