Arthur is a name of ancient British origin, derived from the Brythonic element "arth" meaning "bear". It was popularized by the legendary British king Arthur Pendragon, who according to medieval folklore and literature, led the Knights of the Round Table in the 5th or 6th century. The name Arthur became widely known throughout Europe during the Middle Ages due to the spread of the Arthurian legend.
Throughout history, Arthur has been associated with several notable figures beyond King Arthur himself. Arthur, Duke of Brittany (981-1002), was a Breton nobleman who played an important role in supporting his cousin, King Conan I of Brittany. Additionally, Arthur, Prince of Wales (1486-1502) was the son of Henry VII of England and Elizabeth of York.
The name Arthur has been used by many notable individuals over time, including authors like Arthur Conan Doyle, creators of the famous detective Sherlock Holmes, and scientists such as Sir Arthur Eddington, a prominent astrophysicist known for his work on the theory of relativity. It is also the name shared by several royal figures, including Arthur, Duke of Connaught and Strathearn (1850-1942), son of Queen Victoria.
In recent years, the name Arthur has seen a resurgence in popularity as a given name. According to data from the Social Security Administration, it has consistently ranked among the top 1000 boys' names in the United States since the 1980s. Today, Arthur is celebrated for its rich history and timeless elegance, making it an enduring choice for parents seeking a classic yet distinctive name for their son.
In conclusion, the name Arthur is deeply rooted in British history and folklore, tracing back to the legendary King Arthur Pendragon. Throughout the centuries, numerous notable figures have carried this name, contributing to its lasting popularity and appeal as a given name today. With its strong association with bravery, leadership, and wisdom, Arthur continues to captivate parents and stand as a timeless symbol of elegance and strength.
The name Arthur experienced notable fluctuations in popularity over the years. Its highest points were in the late 19th to early 20th centuries, with peaks of 33 births in 1927 and 46 births in 1921. However, it reached a low point of just 5 births in 1881 and again in 1993. The name regained some popularity in the mid-20th century but has since declined, with only 7 or fewer births per year from 1998 onwards. Overall, there were 2192 births named Arthur between 1880 and 2006.