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Last Name Harvey Origin

Introduction

Choosing a name for your child is an important decision, and many parents look to their family history for inspiration. If you have the last name Harvey in your family tree, you may be interested in learning more about its origin and meaning. The name Harvey has a rich history and is associated with many notable individuals throughout the centuries. In this article, we will explore the meaning and history of the last name Harvey, as well as its genealogy and notable individuals who bear the name.

Meaning and Origin of the Last Name Harvey

The last name Harvey is of English origin and is derived from the Old Breton name Huiarnviu, which means 'iron-hearted'. The name was brought to England by Breton mercenaries who fought for William the Conqueror in the Norman Conquest of 1066. Over time, the name evolved into various forms, including Hervi, Hervie, and Harvey.

Harvey Genealogy

The Harvey family has a long and distinguished history, with many notable individuals bearing the name. One of the most famous Harveys was William Harvey (1578-1657), an English physician who is credited with discovering the circulation of blood. Other notable Harveys include: - Paul Harvey (1918-2009), an American radio broadcaster - Steve Harvey (b. 1957), an American comedian and television host - Harvey Milk (1930-1978), an American politician and gay rights activist - Laurence Harvey (1928-1973), a Lithuanian-born British actor - Barbara Harvey (b. 1949), an American mathematician and computer scientist If you have the last name Harvey in your family tree, you may be interested in tracing your genealogy to learn more about your ancestors and their contributions to history.

Notable Individuals with the Last Name Harvey

As mentioned earlier, there have been many notable individuals throughout history who bear the last name Harvey. Here are a few more: - John Harvey (c. 1565-1630), an English naval commander who played a key role in the defeat of the Spanish Armada - Augustus Harvey (1819-1896), a British admiral who served in the Crimean War and the Indian Mutiny - Fred Harvey (1835-1901), an American entrepreneur who founded the Harvey House chain of restaurants and hotels along the Santa Fe Railroad - William Harvey (1796-1866), an English painter known for his landscapes and seascapes - John Harvey Kellogg (1852-1943), an American physician and health reformer who invented corn flakes These individuals demonstrate the diversity of talent and achievement associated with the last name Harvey.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the last name Harvey has a rich history and interesting origin. Whether you are considering it as a first name for your child or simply want to learn more about your family history, the name Harvey is worth exploring. From William Harvey's groundbreaking discoveries in medicine to Steve Harvey's comedic talents, the name has been associated with many notable individuals throughout history. By tracing your genealogy and learning more about the meaning and history of the name, you can gain a deeper appreciation for your family heritage and the contributions of those who came before you.