* Limited historical data: Records from that era are scarce and incomplete, especially regarding language use.
* Definition of "English": The English language in 1000 AD was very different from modern English. It was evolving and varied regionally. What constitutes "English" would be debated.
* Population estimates: Accurate population counts were not available for that time period, particularly across diverse regions.
However, we can offer some insights:
* Anglo-Saxons: The dominant population in England at that time spoke Old English (Anglo-Saxon), a precursor to modern English. However, the exact number of speakers is unknown.
* Limited geographic spread: English was primarily confined to England and parts of what is now Scotland and Wales. It had not yet spread to other parts of the world.
* Other languages: Other languages were spoken throughout Europe, including Old Norse, French, and Latin.
In conclusion: It's not feasible to provide a precise number of English speakers in 1000 AD. Historical records and the complex nature of language evolution make it impossible.