HOME > Origin of Fitzgerald Name
Introduction
Choosing a name for your child is a big decision, and many parents look to their family history for inspiration. The Fitzgerald name is one that has a rich history and a strong legacy, making it a popular choice for many families. In this article, we will explore the origin and meaning of the Fitzgerald name, as well as its significance in Irish and English history.
The Norman Invasion of Ireland
The Fitzgerald name has its roots in the Norman invasion of Ireland in the 12th century. The Normans were a group of people from northern France who had conquered England in 1066. They were led by Strongbow, a Norman lord who was invited to Ireland by the King of Leinster to help him in his battles against other Irish kings. Strongbow and his army were successful in their conquests, and they established a foothold in Ireland that would last for centuries.
The FitzGeralds
One of the Norman lords who came to Ireland with Strongbow was Maurice FitzGerald. Maurice was a member of the FitzGerald family, which was one of the most powerful and influential Norman families in Ireland. The FitzGeralds were known for their military prowess and their ability to navigate the complex political landscape of medieval Ireland. They quickly became one of the most prominent families in the country, and their influence would be felt for centuries to come.
The Meaning of the Name
The Fitzgerald name is a combination of two words: Fitz, which means 'son of', and Gerald, which is a Norman name that means 'rule of the spear'. So, the name Fitzgerald literally means 'son of Gerald'. This was a common naming convention in medieval Europe, where surnames were not yet in common use. Instead, people were often referred to by their first name and their father's name, such as John FitzGerald or William FitzWilliam.
The Fitzgerald Legacy
The Fitzgerald family went on to become one of the most powerful and influential families in Ireland and England. They held titles such as Earl of Kildare, Earl of Desmond, and Duke of Leinster, and they were known for their wealth, their political power, and their military might. The Fitzgeralds were involved in many of the major events of Irish and English history, including the Wars of the Roses, the Tudor conquest of Ireland, and the English Civil War.
Famous Fitzgeralds
The Fitzgerald name has been carried by many notable individuals throughout history. Some of the most famous Fitzgeralds include: - Thomas FitzGerald, 7th Earl of Kildare, who led a rebellion against Henry VIII in 1534 - Edward FitzGerald, a 19th-century poet and translator who was known for his work on the Rubaiyat of Omar Khayyam - F. Scott Fitzgerald, an American author who wrote The Great Gatsby and other classic novels - Ella Fitzgerald, a legendary jazz singer who was known as the 'First Lady of Song' These individuals, and many others like them, have helped to cement the Fitzgerald name in the annals of history.
Conclusion
The Fitzgerald name is one that has a rich and storied history, dating back to the Norman invasion of Ireland in the 12th century. It is a name that has been carried by many notable individuals throughout history, and it continues to be a popular choice for families today. Whether you are of Irish or English ancestry, the Fitzgerald name is one that you can be proud to carry with you.
