Plutarco is a unique and distinctive name of Greek origin, derived from the god Pluto and the suffix "-arkos," which means "power" or "lord." This name has been popular throughout history, especially among Spanish-speaking countries.
The earliest known usage of the name Plutarco dates back to ancient Greece. It was borne by several notable figures throughout history, most notably Pliny the Younger (Gaius Plinius Secundus), a Roman lawyer, author, and correspondent of the Emperor Trajan in the 1st century AD.
In Spain, the name became popular during the Middle Ages, likely due to the influence of Spanish writers and philosophers who admired Greek culture. Today, Plutarco is still used throughout Latin America and Spain, although it remains relatively rare compared to other names.
One famous bearer of this name was Mexican politician Plutarco Elías Calles (1877-1945), who served as president from 1924 to 1928. He was a key figure in the development of the Institutional Revolutionary Party (PRI) and played a significant role in shaping modern Mexico.
In literature, Plutarco is the name of a character in Gabriel García Márquez's novel "Love in the Time of Cholera." This character serves as an example of fidelity and devotion throughout the story.
Overall, while not as widely known as some other names, Plutarco holds a unique place in history and culture. Its strong connection to ancient Greek mythology gives it a sense of timelessness and power.
The name Plutarco has been a rare choice among parents in the United States over the past century. According to records, there were five babies named Plutarco in 1927 and seven in both 1928 and 1938. The most recent year with recorded births of the name was 1958, when another five newborns were given this unique moniker.
Overall, since 1927, there have been a total of twenty-four individuals named Plutarco born in the United States. This data illustrates that while not many parents opt for this distinctive name each year, those who do choose it are likely inspired by its rare and special nature.