Selma is a unique and charming name of Arabic origin. It is derived from the Arabic word "salam," which means "peace." The name has been popular throughout history, with notable figures such as Selma Lagerlöf, a Swedish author who won the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1909.
The name Selma was also prominent during the Civil Rights Movement in the United States. Selma, Alabama became a significant location due to the Selma to Montgomery marches in 1965, which were crucial events in the fight for African American voting rights. These historic events further popularized the name and added a layer of cultural significance.
In literature and arts, Selma has been used as a character name in various works, such as the novel "Selma" by J.D. Salinger and the film "Selma" directed by Ava DuVernay, which chronicles the Selma to Montgomery marches and is named after the city itself.
The name Selma has also been favored by royal families throughout history. Queen consort of Sweden, Victoria of Baden, was known as Princess Selma prior to her marriage.
Overall, Selma is a powerful and captivating name with deep roots in history and culture. Its meaning of "peace" adds a touch of serenity and grace to the name, making it an attractive choice for parents seeking a distinctive yet meaningful name for their child.
The name Selma experienced a peak in popularity during the early to mid-20th century, with over 500 births per year consistently from 1912 to 1936. The highest recorded number of births was in 1914 with 587 babies named Selma. However, there has been a significant decline in its popularity since then, with fewer than 100 births per year recorded since the mid-1970s. In recent years, the name Selma has seen a slight resurgence, with around 60 to 80 births per year from 2000 onwards.