Armstrong Last Name Origin, History, and Meaning
Where did the surname Armstrong come from? What does the surname Armstrong mean? Discover the history and meaning of the last name Armstrong and family migration on YourRoots Map.
Surname Armstrong Origin: What does the last name Armstrong mean?
Armstrong is a surname of English and Scottish borders origin. It derives from a Middle English nickname meaning someone with strong arms. The Scottish Armstrong is believed to have been bestowed by an ancient king of Scotland upon Fairbairn, his armor-bearer, following an act of strength in battle. Clan Armstrong, a famous Border Reiver clan from the border area between England and Scotland, was predominantly based on the Scottish side. The name is also common in the Aghagallon and Glenavy area of County Antrim, Northern Ireland, as well as in the UK, especially in North East England, Cumbria, Scottish Borders, and Northern Ireland. It is also prevalent in the Deep South of the United States.
YourRoots data confirms Armstrong’s presence in Scotland, United Kingdom, from the early 11th century. The surname expanded significantly in Ireland during the 17th century, indicating its spread beyond Scottish roots. By the 18th century, the Armstrong surname had grown prominently in the United States, surpassing records in Scotland and Ireland. Today, Armstrong can be found in various countries globally, including the United Kingdom, Ireland, United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, and Europe, showcasing its widespread presence and historical significance.
Armstrong Last Name History: Where did the last name Armstrong come from?
Origin of Armstrong Surname: Where does the last name Armstrong originate from?
The earliest records of the surname Armstrong in the YourRoots database originate from Scotland, United Kingdom, around the early 11th century. Please note that this reflects only the precise spelling 'Armstrong' in the YourRoots data and does not consider other potential sources or variations of the surname.
History of the Last Name Armstrong: What does the Armstrong surname history look like in the early days?
The Armstrong surname was closely associated with Scotland, United Kingdom, from the 11th through the 15th century according to the YourRoots data. We also see a significant increase in the volume of Armstrong family records in Ireland during the 17th century. This suggests the surname began to spread beyond its original Scottish roots during these centuries.
Global Spread: Where can we find the Armstrong surname today?
By the 18th century, the volume of records with the Armstrong surname had grown substantially in the United States, surpassing those in both Scotland and Ireland. This trend continued into the 19th century and it is evident that the Armstrong surname has since become quite prominent in the United States. According to YourRoots data, in addition to the United States, the Armstrong surname can be found in a range of countries globally, including but not limited to the United Kingdom, Ireland, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, and several countries in Europe.
Explore Armstrong last name heritage and Armstrong surname origin based on YourRoots Map data

Famous People With Armstrong Surame?
Neil Armstrong
Neil Alden Armstrong (August 5, 1930 – August 25, 2012) was an American astronaut and aeronautical engineer who made history as the first person to walk on the Moon in 1969. Known for his famous words, "That's one small step for [a] man, one giant leap for mankind," Armstrong's monumental achievement during the Apollo 11 mission solidified his legacy in space exploration. His contributions to NASA's space programs and his role in the Space Race earned him numerous accolades, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom and the Congressional Space Medal of Honor. Armstrong's pioneering spirit continues to inspire future generations of explorers.
Billie Joe Armstrong
Billie Joe Armstrong (Feb 17, 1972 - ) is an American musician and actor best known as the lead vocalist, guitarist, and primary songwriter of the rock band Green Day. Co-founding the band in 1987, Armstrong has been considered one of the greatest punk rock guitarists of all time. He has also worked on side projects like Foxboro Hot Tubs and The Longshot, as well as acting in films and TV series. Armstrong's musical career began at a young age, and he has since pursued various collaborations and business ventures, including founding Adeline Records and Punk Bunny Coffee.
Louis Armstrong
Louis Daniel Armstrong (August 4, 1901 – July 6, 1971) was an influential American trumpeter and vocalist in the jazz genre. Known as "Satchmo," "Satch," and "Pops," Armstrong's career spanned five decades, earning him accolades like the Grammy Award for Best Male Vocal Performance. His iconic songs include "What a Wonderful World" and "Hello, Dolly!" Armstrong's impact on music crossed genres, with inductions into various Halls of Fame. He was also a charismatic entertainer, beloved for his joyful public image and skillful improvisation. Armstrong's legacy as a pioneering African-American artist who achieved widespread popularity remains enduring in the music world.
Lance Armstrong
Lance Edward Armstrong (September 18, 1971) is a former American professional road racing cyclist. He gained worldwide fame for winning the Tour de France seven times in a row from 1999 to 2005. However, he was stripped of his titles in 2012 due to doping allegations. Armstrong founded the Livestrong Foundation to support cancer survivors after overcoming testicular cancer himself. Despite his success in cycling, Armstrong's career was marred by his involvement in a doping scandal, leading to a lifetime ban from sanctioned events. His story remains a controversial chapter in the world of professional cycling.
Rebecca Patricia Armstrong
Rebecca Patricia Armstrong (Dec 5, 2002 - ) known as Becky Armstrong, is a Thai-British actress, singer, and model. She gained fame for her lead role in the Thai GL series "Gap: The Series" and has starred in various films and music videos. Armstrong is currently studying law with Criminology and Psychology at the University of Essex and is known for her adventurous spirit and love for sports and marine biology.
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