Friedman Last Name Origin, History, and Meaning
Where did the surname Friedman come from? What does the surname Friedman mean? Discover the history and meaning of the last name Friedman and family migration on YourRoots Map.
Surname Friedman Origin: What does the last name Friedman mean?
The surname Friedman is of German origin and was also adopted by Ashkenazi Jews in the 17th century. It is the 9th most common surname in Israel and the most common exclusively Ashkenazi name. The name Friedman first appeared in records from Ukraine in the early 18th century, indicating its global spread over the centuries. By the 20th century, the surname had grown significantly in countries like Ukraine, Russia, the United States, and Israel, remaining prominent in these regions and appearing in many other countries as well.
YourRoots data confirms the presence of the Friedman surname in various countries since the 18th century, reflecting its widespread distribution across the globe. The name has a rich history and has evolved over the centuries, maintaining its significance in different regions and cultures. Today, the Friedman surname continues to be prominent in various countries, showcasing its enduring legacy and global reach.
Friedman Last Name History: Where did the last name Friedman come from?
Origin of Friedman Surname: Where does the last name Friedman originate from?
According to YourRoots data, the surname Friedman first appeared in records from Ukraine around the early 18th century. Please note that this reflects only YourRoots data for the exact Friedman spelling and does not include other record sources or surname variations.
History of the Last Name Friedman: What does the Friedman surname history look like in the early days?
The Friedman surname started growing significantly in countries like Ukraine, Russia, and the United States from the 18th to the 19th centuries. YourRoots data also shows Friedman family records in countries like Israel, indicating global spread over the centuries.
Global Spread: Where can we find the Friedman surname today?
By the 20th century, the volume of records with the Friedman surname grew significantly in Russia, the United States, Israel, and other countries. The Friedman surname remains prominent in these regions. It appears in many countries, including Ukraine, reflecting its widespread presence across the globe.
Explore Friedman last name heritage and Friedman surname origin based on YourRoots Map data

Famous People With Friedman Surame?
Dean Friedman
Dean Friedman (May 23, 1955 - ) is an American singer-songwriter known for his hit song "Ariel" in 1977. Hailing from Paramus, New Jersey, Friedman plays piano, keyboard, guitar, and harmonica. Despite being labeled a one-hit wonder in the US, he has had multiple chart-topping singles in other countries and continues to write, record, and tour. His music has influenced contemporary bands like The Barenaked Ladies and Ben Folds Five. Friedman has also ventured into TV and film, composing theme music for shows like Boon and Nick Arcade. In addition to his musical career, he authored a book on synthesizers and established the New York School of Synthesis.
Greta Zimmer Friedman
Greta Zimmer Friedman (née Grete Zimmer; June 5, 1924 – September 8, 2016) was an Austrian-born American famous for being the woman kissed by a Navy sailor in the iconic V-J Day in Times Square photograph of 1945. Originally misattributed as a nurse, Friedman was actually a dental assistant. Her life story includes emigrating to the U.S. to escape Nazi-controlled Austria, working in various fields in New York, and eventually marrying a WWII veteran. Despite the photograph's romanticized portrayal, Friedman later expressed mixed feelings about the event, emphasizing that the kiss was not consensual but rather a jubilant celebration of the end of the war.
Michel Friedman
Julien Michel Friedman (February 25, 1956 - present) is a German author, former CDU politician, and talk show host. He served as vice president of the Central Council of Jews in Germany and president of the European Jewish Congress. Friedman is known for his TV shows and his outspoken views on various political issues. Despite facing controversy in the past, he continues to be a prominent figure in German media and politics.
Hershey Friedman
Hershey Friedman (born 1950) is a Canadian billionaire businessman and philanthropist known for his diverse business ventures in plastics packaging, kosher meat, luxury real estate development, and Jewish books. He is the founder of a leading packaging company in North America, packaging renowned brands like Hershey's and Nestle. Friedman also owns a real estate development company in Israel and a kosher meat business in the USA. His philanthropic efforts include funding charitable projects and publishing holy texts. With a strong commitment to humanitarian aid and Jewish communal support, Friedman continues to make a positive impact on society.
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