Franklin Last Name Origin, History, and Meaning
Where did the surname Franklin come from? What does the surname Franklin mean? Discover the history and meaning of the last name Franklin and family migration on YourRoots Map.
Surname Franklin Origin: What does the last name Franklin mean?
The surname Franklin originated in England around the early 15th century, according to data from YourRoots. It is believed to have derived from the Old English term for a free landowner or a freeholder. The name Franklin remained closely associated with England in the 15th and 16th centuries before spreading to the United States by the 17th century. Today, the Franklin surname is prominent in the United States and can be found in many countries worldwide, reflecting the global migration and spread of families carrying this name over centuries.
YourRoots data confirms the early presence of the Franklin surname in the United Kingdom, with its expansion to countries like the United States by the 17th century. The Franklin surname has since spread globally, with records indicating its presence in various countries such as Canada, Australia, and Switzerland. This surname's history highlights a rich heritage of free landowners and homeowners, showcasing its enduring presence and influence across different regions and cultures throughout history.
Franklin Last Name History: Where did the last name Franklin come from?
Origin of Franklin Surname: Where does the last name Franklin originate from?
According to YourRoots data, the surname Franklin first appeared in records from England (United Kingdom) around the early 15th century. This information reflects only YourRoots data for the exact “Franklin” spelling and does not include other record sources or surname variations.
History of the Last Name Franklin: What does the Franklin surname history look like in the early days?
The “Franklin” surname remained closely associated with England from the 15th through the 16th century. However, by the 17th century, the volume of YourRoots records for the Franklin family had grown significantly in the United States, surpassing the United Kingdom. This trend continued into the 18th and 19th centuries, indicating an early global spread of the Franklin surname.
Global Spread: Where can we find the Franklin surname today?
Today, the “Franklin” surname remains prominent in the United States, based on the volume of records in the YourRoots database. While it originated in the United Kingdom, the Franklin surname now appears in many countries worldwide, reflecting the global migration and spread of families carrying this name over centuries. Although detailed country data for the 20th and 21st centuries is not provided, the high volume in the United States suggests a strong presence there, likely accompanied by a broader distribution in other nations.
Explore Franklin last name heritage and Franklin surname origin based on YourRoots Map data
VIEW THE ORIGIN OF SURNAME FRANKLIN
Famous People With Franklin Surame?
Aretha Franklin
Aretha Louise Franklin (March 25, 1942 – August 16, 2018) was an iconic American singer, songwriter, and pianist known as the "Queen of Soul." She rose to fame in the 1960s with hits like "Respect" and "I Say a Little Prayer." Franklin won 18 Grammy Awards and was the first female artist inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Her powerful voice and soulful music continue to inspire generations worldwide.
Benjamin Franklin
Benjamin Franklin (January 17, 1706 – April 17, 1790) was an American polymath known for his roles as a writer, scientist, inventor, statesman, diplomat, printer, and political philosopher. A Founding Father of the United States, Franklin was instrumental in drafting the Declaration of Independence and served as the first postmaster general. He was a key figure in the American Enlightenment, making significant contributions to science with his studies on electricity and inventions like the lightning rod and bifocals. Franklin's legacy as one of America's most influential figures is honored through various institutions, cultural references, and even the $100 bill.
Rosalind Franklin
Rosalind Elsie Franklin (July 25, 1920 – April 16, 1958) was a British chemist and X-ray crystallographer. Her groundbreaking work on DNA and viruses significantly contributed to the understanding of molecular structures. Despite being overlooked during her lifetime, Franklin's legacy as a pioneering scientist has been recognized posthumously. Her famous X-ray diffraction image, Photo 51, was crucial in the discovery of the DNA double helix structure. Franklin's dedication to research and unwavering pursuit of scientific truth have cemented her as a feminist icon and a symbol of resilience in the field of molecular biology.
C. L. Franklin
Clarence LaVaughn Franklin (né Walker; January 22, 1915 – July 27, 1984) was an American Baptist minister and civil rights activist with the "Million-Dollar Voice." He served as pastor of New Bethel Baptist Church in Detroit and was the father of iconic singer Aretha Franklin. Known for his powerful sermons and musical preaching style, Franklin was a key figure in the civil rights movement and supported Martin Luther King Jr. He tragically passed away after being shot in an attempted robbery, leaving behind a lasting legacy in both the religious and music worlds.
Kirk Franklin
Kirk Dewayne Franklin (born Jan 26, 1970) is an American gospel musician known for leading urban contemporary gospel ensembles like The Family and God's Property. With 20 Grammy Awards, he is a top-selling artist dubbed the "Reigning King of Urban Gospel." Franklin's talent emerged early as he excelled in music, eventually directing choirs and forming groups. His hit songs, collaborations, and albums have garnered critical acclaim and commercial success. Franklin's influence in gospel music and his powerful performances have solidified his place as a prominent figure in the industry.
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