Alexander is a name of Greek origin that has been popular throughout history and across many cultures. It is derived from the Greek word "alexein," which means "to defend" or "to ward off." The second part of the name, "aner," means "man." Thus, Alexander can be translated to mean "defender of mankind."
The most famous bearer of this name is undoubtedly Alexander the Great, the king of Macedon who conquered much of the known world in the 4th century BCE. His achievements and legacy have made his name synonymous with power, ambition, and success. However, the name Alexander has been used long before and after his reign, and not just in Greece.
In Russia, Alexander is a popular name due to its use by several prominent figures throughout history, including three Tsars (Alexander I, II, and III). In Scotland, Alexander Selkirk's experiences inspired Daniel Defoe's novel Robinson Crusoe. And in the United States, President William McKinley had a brother named Alexander.
Today, Alexander remains a popular name around the world. It has been used consistently throughout history, reflecting its timeless appeal. Whether as a first or middle name, Alexander carries with it a strong and powerful presence that echoes back to its ancient origins.
The name Alexander has been popular among parents in the United States for over a century, with its usage varying in popularity from year to year. According to the statistics provided, the name first peaked in popularity during the early 1960s, with over 1300 births recorded each year between 1963 and 1967.
The name Alexander continued to be popular throughout the 1970s, with over 2000 births recorded annually. However, it was during the 1980s that the name began to skyrocket in popularity, reaching an all-time high of over 14500 births in 1989.
The popularity of Alexander continued into the 1990s and early 2000s, with over 17000 births recorded annually between 1992 and 2003. However, the name began to decline in popularity after this period, falling below the 15000 mark by 2006.
Despite this decline, Alexander remains a popular choice for parents in the United States, with over 8000 births recorded annually between 2014 and 2022. This demonstrates that while its popularity may fluctuate from year to year, Alexander continues to be a beloved name among American parents.
Overall, these statistics show that the name Alexander has been a consistent favorite among American parents for generations, with periods of significant popularity throughout the late 20th century and early 21st century.