Here's the breakdown:
* Origin: The instrument actually originated in Germany in the 17th century. It was initially called the "cor anglais" (French for "English horn"), possibly due to a misunderstanding or a playful name given by French musicians.
* Evolution: The cor anglais is a double reed instrument related to the oboe, but with a lower pitch and a more mellow, reedy sound. It evolved from an earlier instrument called the "tenor oboe".
* English Connection: The name "English horn" stuck despite its lack of English origin, and it's still the commonly used name today.
So, while it's named for England, the English horn's true roots lie in Germany, and its family ties are with the oboe.