HOME > Origin of Last Name Anderson
Introduction
The last name Anderson is a common surname in many English-speaking countries, including the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom. Like many surnames, the origin of the name Anderson can be traced back to a specific region or country. In this article, we will explore the history and meaning behind the last name Anderson, as well as notable individuals who bear the name.
Etymology of Anderson
The last name Anderson is derived from the personal name Andrew, which comes from the Greek name Andreas, meaning 'manly' or 'warrior'. The name Andrew was popularized in Scotland by Saint Andrew, the patron saint of Scotland. The name Anderson is a patronymic surname, meaning it is derived from the father's first name. In this case, Anderson means 'son of Andrew'.
Geographical Distribution of Anderson
The last name Anderson is most commonly found in Scotland, where it is the 4th most common surname. It is also a common surname in England, particularly in the north of England. In the United States, Anderson is the 12th most common surname, with a particularly high concentration in the Midwest. Anderson is also a common surname in Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.
History of Anderson
The Anderson family history can be traced back to the 13th century in Scotland, where the name was first recorded. The Andersons were a prominent family in Scotland, with many members serving as judges, lawyers, and politicians. The Andersons were also involved in the Scottish Wars of Independence, fighting alongside William Wallace and Robert the Bruce. In England, the Andersons were a prominent family in the north of England, particularly in Yorkshire and Durham. Many Andersons were involved in the wool trade and were wealthy landowners.
Notable Individuals with the Last Name Anderson
There have been many notable individuals throughout history with the last name Anderson. Here are just a few: 1. Marian Anderson - American contralto singer and civil rights activist 2. Gillian Anderson - American-British actress, best known for her role as Agent Scully in The X-Files 3. Wes Anderson - American film director and screenwriter, known for films such as The Grand Budapest Hotel and Moonrise Kingdom 4. Laurie Anderson - American avant-garde artist and musician 5. Carl David Anderson - American physicist and Nobel Prize winner, known for his discovery of the positron 6. Pamela Anderson - Canadian-American actress and model, best known for her role in Baywatch 7. Richard Dean Anderson - American actor, best known for his role as MacGyver 8. Sherwood Anderson - American writer, best known for his novel Winesburg, Ohio 9. Lindsay Anderson - British film director, known for films such as If.... and O Lucky Man! 10. Ian Anderson - Scottish musician, best known as the lead vocalist and flautist of the band Jethro Tull
Conclusion
The last name Anderson has a rich history and can be traced back to Scotland, England, and Scandinavia. The name is derived from the personal name Andrew and is a patronymic surname, meaning 'son of Andrew'. Anderson is a common surname in many English-speaking countries and has been borne by many notable individuals throughout history.
