Evander is a unique and distinctive given name of Greek origin. The name derives from the ancient Greek word 'Euanthos', which means "good-flowing" or "happy". This name has a rich history dating back to ancient mythology.
In Greek mythology, Evander was a hero who traveled from Arcadia to Italy with his followers and founded the city of Pallantium on the site where Rome would later be built. He was also known for being a friend and advisor to Aeneas, the Trojan hero who eventually became the ancestor of the Romans.
The name Evander has been used throughout history by several notable figures. One of the most famous was Evander Berry Wall, an American politician who served as a U.S. Representative from Alabama in the late 19th century.
Today, Evander is still a rare but captivating choice for parents seeking a unique and meaningful name for their child. It has a strong historical background and an intriguing meaning that sets it apart from more common names. Whether inspired by Greek mythology or simply drawn to its unique sound, those who choose the name Evander are selecting a name with a rich history and a distinctive character all its own.
The name Evander has seen a significant increase in popularity over the past century in the United States. Between 1888 and 1939, the number of babies named Evander fluctuated between 5 and 11 births per year, with a few exceptions reaching as high as 16 births in 1923.
However, beginning in 1940, there was a notable shift. The number of newborns named Evander started to increase more significantly, reaching double digits annually for the first time since the early 1900s. This trend continued and accelerated over the decades:
* From 1950 to 1979, the annual births ranged from 5 to 16.
* Between 1980 and 1999, the number of Evander births increased further, ranging from 7 to 30 annually.
* In the new millennium, the popularity of the name Evander soared even higher. From 2000 to present, the annual births have ranged from 18 to over 320, with a peak of 349 in 2021.
This data illustrates how the name Evander has gained considerable traction among parents in the United States, particularly since the late 20th century. The total number of babies named Evander born in the U.S. between 1888 and 2023 is an impressive 3475, showcasing the enduring appeal of this name throughout generations.