Often, the languages present in a state are reflective of its immigration history. Connecticut was one of the regions that originally saw European immigrants coming into North America, and it has remained a popular destination since. As a result, an array of languages are spoken in Connecticut. With that in mind, here’s a look at immigration in the state, as well as the top 10 languages in Connecticut.
Connecticut Immigration History
Originally, Connecticut’s population was primarily Algonquian-speaking Native Americans. In total, there were 16 unique tribes with approximately 5,000 to 7,000 members.
However, by 1614, Dutch traders began traveling the Connecticut River. While they didn’t settle in the region, immigrants from England were soon to follow, establishing colonies in the 1630s. Initially, settlement growth was largely attributed to births during that time and into the 18th century, though there was a steady influx of mainly British immigrants, as well.
By 1790, around 96 percent of residents were of English descent. Another 2 percent was African American, with the rest being made up of Native Americans and immigrants of other origins. However, by 1840, there was an increase in Irish immigrants. After the Civil War, French Canadians also made their way into Connecticut.
By the late 19th century, a wider array of immigrants became common. The majority were from eastern and southern Europe. Many groups self-segregated, causing various regions to feature larger populations of specific immigrants.
After World War II, immigration patterns shifted. There was an increase of African Americans heading to the state, as well as an influx of Puerto Ricans. In time, other Hispanic immigrants became increasingly prevalent. Jamaicans and Haitians also became more common, as well as immigrants from Asian nations like China.
Top 10 Languages in Connecticut (Other Than English)
Connecticut has a smaller population than many other states, with about 1.39 million households within its borders. While legislation to make English the official language in Connecticut multiple times, it was never passed.
Still, English is by far the most common language spoken in Connecticut. However, a surprising 22.1 percent of households speak a language other than English at home. That works out to about 307,190 households overall.
Data regarding those households is generally available. Here’s a list of the top 10 languages in Connecticut other than English.
1. Spanish
In Connecticut, the most common language spoken aside from English is Spanish. Overall, there are approximately 403,019 speakers, representing about 11.90 percent of the population.
2. Portuguese
Next on the list is Portuguese. While it’s the third-most common language in Connecticut, the share of the population that speaks it is just 1.05 percent, or about 35,604 individuals, putting it far behind second-place Spanish.
3. Polish
With about 29,528 speakers, Polish comes in next. Overall, Polish speakers represent just a bit more than 0.87 percent of the population.
4. Chinese
In fourth place is Chinese (including Cantonese and Mandarin). When taken together, the 28,340 speakers make up nearly 0.84 percent of the population.
5. Italian
Following Chinese is Italian. There are around 26,305 Italian speakers in Connecticut, making up about 0.78 percent of the population.
6. French
In Connecticut, you’ll find about 23,056 French (including Cajun) speakers. That means the share of French in the population is close to 0.68 percent.
7. Haitian
After French comes Haitian. In total, there are about 15,590 speakers, which makes up 0.46 percent of the population.
8. Hindi
While the number of Hindi speakers is small – coming in at 13,657 – Connecticut’s lower population means it makes the top 10 list. Overall, Hindi speakers represent around 0.40 percent of all residents.
9. Arabic
Sitting just behind Hindi is Arabic, representing a little more than 0.37 percent of the population with its 12,663 speakers.
10. Russian
Wrapping up the top 10 is Russian. In total, there are about 10,255 speakers, making up approximately 0.30 percent of the population.
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