American Sign Language

American Sign Language is the dominant sign language in the United States, Canada and parts of Mexico. American Sign Language is usually abbreviated ASL though it has also been known as Ameslan. As with other sign languages, its grammar and syntax are separate and distinct from the spoken language(s) spoken in its area of influence. It originated around the turn of the century as the sign languages of the American Indians, [French Sign Language]?, and the sign language of the residents of [Martha's Vineyard]? merged with one another and probably other linguistic influences as the first school for the deaf in America was established by [Thomas Hopkins Gallaudet]?.