Why do Americans use different English spelling from the rest of the world?

As authors, it behoves us to know whether we are writing in British English or American English. The choice between the two often comes down to the locality of your publisher, or if you are self-publishing, to personal choice. 

Pick one and be consistent. That's my advice. Because I am Australian and Australia is a Commonwealth country, I write in Australian English, which adopts British spelling, not American. It is endlessly frustrating when, despite choosing Australian English as my language in Microsoft Word, the spell check continues to put red squiggles under every word that the Americans decided to change.

I found myself asking why did those pesky Americans do this? It's so inconvenient.

The differences in spelling between American and British English primarily stem from historical linguistic changes and efforts to standardize spelling in the 18th and 19th centuries. Here's a brief overview of why these differences developed:

1. Noah Webster's Influence

The most significant factor in American spelling differences was the work of Noah Webster, an American lexicographer, grammarian, and language reformer. In the early 19th century, Webster sought to simplify and standardize American English spelling in a way that reflected American independence and identity.

In his dictionary, An American Dictionary of the English Language (first published in 1828), Webster introduced several spelling changes, including:

• Dropping the "u": Words like "colour" and "labour" were simplified to "color" and "labor."
• Simplifying "-re" to "-er": Words like "centre" became "center."
• Changing "ce" to "se": Words like "defence" became "defense."
• Eliminating double consonants: In some cases, like "traveller" becoming "traveler."

Webster believed these changes would make English spelling more logical and phonetic, reflecting the way words were pronounced.

2. National Identity

After the American Revolution, there was a strong desire in the United States to differentiate itself culturally and politically from Britain. Language was one area where these differences were emphasized, with American English evolving separately to create a distinct national identity.

3. Printing and Publishing

The rise of American printing and publishing also played a role. As American publishers adopted Webster's spellings, these forms became standard in American English. British publishers, on the other hand, retained the traditional spellings, leading to the divergence we see today.

4. Linguistic Evolution

Language naturally evolves over time, and as American and British societies developed separately, so did their use of English. This includes not only spelling but also vocabulary and pronunciation.

5. Global Influence

With the rise of the United States as a global power, American English became more influential worldwide, particularly through media, technology, and commerce. This has led to some American spellings being adopted or recognized internationally, though British spellings remain dominant in many parts of the world, particularly in Commonwealth countries.

In summary, the differences in spelling between American and British English are the result of conscious efforts to create a distinct American language, combined with natural linguistic evolution and the influence of cultural and national identity.