Sign languages, like spoken languages, have developed naturally over time through different groups of people interacting with each other and as a result, there are many different varieties of sign languages found around the world.

One of the earliest known sign languages is American Sign Language (ASL), which was developed by the deaf community in the United States in the early 19th century. ASL has been heavily influenced by French Sign Language (LSF), which was brought to the United States by deaf educators from France.

British Sign Language (BSL) and Australian Sign Language are other well-known sign languages that have both developed independently from ASL. They both also have their own unique grammar and vocabulary which is is not mutually intelligible with ASL.

In addition to ASL, BSL & Auslan, there are many other sign languages found throughout the world. For example, in Japan, there is Japanese Sign Language (JSL) and in Mexico, there is Mexican Sign Language (LSM). Each one of these languages have their own unique characteristics!

One of the reasons for the development of different sign languages is due to deaf people forming tight-knit communities, which leads to the development of a unique language. For this reason, it’s important to note that even within a country, different sign languages may be used by different communities!