Sorbian, Lower
PrintA language of Germany
ISO 639-3
Alternate Names
Bas Sorabe, Delnoserbski, Lluzykie, Lower Lusatian, Lusatian, Luzycki, Niedersorbisch, Wendish
Population
6,670 in Germany (Salminen 2007). 20,000–30,000 total Sorbian, one-third in lower Lusatia, two-thirds in upper Lusatia (Salminen 2007). Population total all countries: 6,860. Ethnic population: 50,000.
Location
East, Niederlausitz (Dolna Luzica), Cottbus (Chósebuz) main town. Ethnic group has over 60 towns and villages. Also in United States.
Language Status
7 (Shifting).
Classification
Language Use
Older adults.
Language Development
Newspapers. Radio programs. TV. Bible: 1796–1824.
Writing
Latin script.
Sorbian has lost much of its former public support after the unification of Germany. Many Sorbian schools have been closed (2007).