English is one of the most widespread languages in the world. As for the number of people speaking English it is the most used language. It´s the mother tongue for inhabitants of the following countries: The USA, Canada, Great Britain, Ireland, Australia, New Zealand. Then there is a great number of countries where English is spoken as the second language e.g. some African countries (The Republic of South Africa) and some Asian countries (India). Generally speaking, English is spoken in The USA, Ireland and in the Commonwealth countries. The Commonwealth is a voluntary assotiation of Britain and her former colonies. It developed in the first half of 20th century when Britain gave self-goverment to her dominions. Founding members were: Britain, Canada, Newfoudland, Australia and New Zealand. Later the Commonwealth included many African, Asian, South American and Caribbean nations. Member countries co-operate to encourage world peace, social understanding, racial equality and economic development. The Queen of England is the formal head in many member states-dominions (in Canada, Australia, New Zealand).