The German language has seen significant modifications over centuries and has changed with civilization. Sociopolitical forces have also made the language into what it is now. Here's a quick timeline of its evolution: The first recordings from Germanic Tribes (55 BCE) Old High German (600 – 1050 CE) Middle High German (1050 – 1350 CE) Early New High German (1350 – 1550 CE) New High German (1550 – Present)