I think the American spellings have something to do with Noah Webster deciding the spelling should be simplified and then spelling words without the Us in his dictionary.
I recently read a biography of Bess of Hardwick, a contemporary of Elizabeth I. It was a challenge for the author to confirm details because everyone spelled as they saw fit - so one last name could have up to five different spellings depending on the writer. Anyhow, set spelling guidelines are relatively modern. which is weird to me - I am a total spelling nerd - I was peeved in church recently because the pastor had misspelled antediluvian on the overhead!
"Sometimes, I can't help but wonder if we are moving full-circle back to an image driven world."
It's been a looong time since I've dropped in here, Kim, but as always, I was encouraged and challenged by your post.
When I read the above printed quote, it hit me between the eyes! It became so clear to me. I had never given much thought to shortened/abbreviated changes which have come about because of texting on cell phones or because of twittering, etc., but when I read that sentence it was like a blaring loud speaker. What is so sad is that it really could be a reality.
Here in Utah, they have just finished a study on how people are dropping the letter "t" from their vocabulary. So instead of pronouncing the town of Layton with the "t" being evident in the pronunciation, it is now being pronounced as "Lay-on" with the "t" silent.
Is it just being lazy that people are choosing to shorten vocabulary, or words in our speech? Is there a lack in our English classes with our young children? I don't know, but I'm standing with you in regards to your post! 
Blessings friend!
I'll give you a big "Amen!"
By the way, I prefer the King's English, not only for the "our" words, but for words like "judgement" and "counsellor." I'm often tempted to use it, and adjust my spell-checker accordingly, but that would be hopelessly pedantic for an American. And I am certainly not pedantic.
That word "judgment" really frosts my cupcakes. When I was homeschooling, and teaching spelling, all three kids had an issue with that word. It just doesn't make sense to me. My son pointed out to me (at the tender age of 10) that "engagement" had and "e" so why did not judgment?
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