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Coke Family Genealogy & History

Discover the Global Legacy of the Coke Surname

The Coke surname traces its origins to England, first appearing in historical records during the early 13th century. This early appearance marks a pivotal moment in the genealogy of those bearing the name, indicating the beginnings of a family history deeply rooted in English soil. Over the centuries, the Coke family established a notable presence, contributing to the rich tapestry of England's genealogical landscape.

Throughout the subsequent centuries, the Coke surname saw considerable growth within England, with families branching out across various regions. This expansion continued into the 14th, 15th, and 16th centuries, creating a complex network of genealogical connections. Notable individuals with the surname, such as British Second World War pilot David Coke and English politician John Coke, highlight the diverse paths taken by members of the Coke family tree.

YourRoots data corroborates the Coke surname's English origins, tracing its presence back to the 13th century. The data also illustrates how the Coke family spread beyond England, particularly in the 18th century when members migrated to the United States. This movement aligns with broader global trends and highlights the dynamic evolution of the Coke genealogy over time. The YourRoots records offer a valuable resource for those interested in exploring the intricacies of their Coke family tree.

Today, Coke genealogy records indicate a global distribution, with a notable presence in both the United States and England. The YourRoots database provides extensive records that can aid individuals in uncovering their unique family histories, demonstrating the enduring legacy of the Coke surname across continents and cultures.

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Origin of the Coke Family: Where does the Coke surname come from?

The earliest known appearance of the Coke surname can be traced back to England during the early 13th century. This initial record marks a significant point in the genealogy of families bearing this name, suggesting that the Coke lineage began to establish its roots in this region. The connection to England provides a foundational context for understanding the family's historical journey and the evolution of their family trees.

Genealogy and Early Family History of Coke

Throughout the following centuries, the Coke family began to spread primarily within England, with notable growth in various regions. During the 14th century, the surname saw a marked increase in frequency, indicating that families were branching out and establishing their own lines. This pattern continued into the 15th and 16th centuries, where the proliferation of Coke families created a more complex web of genealogical connections.

These families often settled in specific areas, contributing to the rich tapestry of local history while expanding their family trees. The evolution of the Coke name during these formative years laid the groundwork for future generations to connect with their ancestral roots.

Tracing the Coke Family Tree Through the Centuries

As the Coke surname evolved, it began to expand beyond England's borders, notably in the 18th century when families started to migrate to the United States and other regions. This movement reflected broader global trends of the time, where many sought new opportunities and adventures. By the 19th century, the surname had solidified its presence in the United States, illustrating a significant chapter in the Coke family narrative.

The dispersion of the Coke name across various countries throughout the centuries illustrates the dynamic nature of family histories and how they intertwine with historical events. The rich genealogy of the Coke families has created a complex network of connections that spans continents and cultures, showcasing the enduring legacy of the name.

Where to Find Coke Genealogy Records Today

In modern centuries, the Coke surname continues to be found globally, with a notable presence in both the United States and its country of origin, England. This ongoing distribution emphasizes the importance of family connections and the quest for ancestry in contemporary times. Readers interested in exploring their own Coke genealogy are encouraged to delve into the extensive records available in the YourRoots database, which can help illuminate their unique family trees.

Famous People with Coke (and Their Family Tree)

Christopher Coke

Christopher Michael Coke, also known as Dudus, is a notorious Jamaican drug lord born on March 13, 1969. He led the infamous Shower Posse gang, initially founded by his father, Lester Coke. Under his leadership, the gang exported large quantities of cocaine and marijuana to the United States. Coke became a powerful figure in West Kingston, developing community programs and gaining substantial local support. Despite his influence, he was extradited to the U.S. in 2010, pleaded guilty to racketeering charges, and was sentenced to 23 years in federal prison in 2012.

Christopher Coke was the youngest son of Lester Lloyd Coke, also known as "Jim Brown," and Patricia Halliburton. His father was a co-founder of the Shower Posse, a violent gang responsible for widespread drug distribution and numerous murders. The family lived in the Tivoli Gardens neighborhood of Kingston, Jamaica, amidst wealth from drug profits, although they suffered personal losses due to drug-related violence.

Phil Coke

Phillip Douglas Coke, born July 19, 1982, is a former American professional baseball pitcher celebrated for his role as a relief pitcher in Major League Baseball. Phil Coke's career highlights include playing for renowned teams like the New York Yankees, Detroit Tigers, Chicago Cubs, Toronto Blue Jays, and Pittsburgh Pirates from 2008 to 2016. Notably, he clinched a World Series championship with the Yankees in 2009. Coke was drafted by the Yankees in 2002, marking the start of a successful career with notable achievements, including leading the Yankees in appearances in 2009 and setting a Tigers record with 13 strikeouts in the 2012 postseason.

Richard Coke

Richard Coke (1829–1897) was a prominent American lawyer and statesman from Waco, Texas, serving as the 15th governor of Texas from 1874 to 1876 and a U.S. Senator from 1877 to 1895. Notable for his role in reestablishing white supremacist rule in Texas post-Reconstruction, he leveraged resentment towards Union occupation to construct a lasting Democratic coalition. His administration balanced the budget and facilitated the creation of the Agricultural and Mechanical College of Texas, now Texas A&M University.

Born in Williamsburg, Virginia, Richard Coke was the son of John and Eliza (Hankins) Coke and had a brother named Octavius. He graduated from the College of William and Mary in 1848 with a law degree before moving to Texas in 1850.

Peter Coke

Peter John Coke was a multi-talented English actor, playwright, and artist. Best known for his role as Paul Temple in the long-running radio drama series, Coke's career spanned theatre, film, and radio. He also made notable contributions to the world of art, particularly in shell art, with exhibitions at respected venues such as Partridge Fine Art and The Fine Art Society. Coke's work included writing eleven plays, with "Breath of Spring" being his most successful, both in the West End and on Broadway. His diverse career highlights and artistic endeavors make him a significant figure in British cultural history.

Peter Coke was born in Southsea, Hampshire, into a family with a naval background. His father, a Royal Navy commander, initially moved the family to Kenya for a business venture. Coke's education at Stowe School and time living with his maternal grandmother in France paint a picture of a well-traveled upbringing, which may have influenced his artistic pursuits.

David Coke

David Arthur Coke, a flight lieutenant in the Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve during World War II, is remembered for his bravery and skill in aerial combat. He achieved notable success with two destroyed, two probable, and two damaged enemy aircraft. Coke's service included pivotal roles in the Battle of Britain, the Balkans campaign, and the Syria-Lebanon campaign. Known for his camaraderie with famed author Roald Dahl, Coke was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross for his leadership and valor in Libya. Tragically, he was killed in action on December 9, 1941, in Acroma, Libya, shortly after his 26th birthday.

David Coke was the second son of Thomas Coke, 4th Earl of Leicester, and Marion Gertrude Trefusis. He was a godson of King Edward VIII and a graduate of Trinity College, Cambridge. His familial connections reflect a notable lineage intertwined with British nobility.

Coke Surname Meaning, Origin, and History

The surname "Coke" has historical roots with notable individuals spanning various professions and nationalities, including British, American, and Latvian figures. It is associated with a wide range of fields such as politics, military, arts, sports, and law, with prominent figures like British politician John Coke from the early modern period and American politician Richard Coke from the 19th century.

Where to Find Genealogy Records for Coke

We’ve analyzed YourRoots tree and records data to uncover where genealogists are finding key sources such as census, birth certificates, marriage records, and obituaries for the Coke family. Explore our most popular genealogy record sources for the Coke surname to learn more.