Ireland Last Name Origin, History, and Meaning
Where did the surname Ireland come from? What does the surname Ireland mean? Discover the history and meaning of the last name Ireland and family migration on YourRoots Map.
Surname Ireland Origin: What does the last name Ireland mean?
The surname Ireland has a unique origin dating back to the early 4th century in Ireland. Over time, it expanded to England from the 11th century onwards, indicating its growth beyond its initial roots. By the 17th century, records show an increase in the presence of the Ireland surname in the United States, surpassing the United Kingdom. Today, the surname Ireland can be found in various countries worldwide, with a strong presence in the United States and the United Kingdom, as well as other regions globally, showcasing its widespread distribution.
Ireland Last Name History: Where did the last name Ireland come from?
Origin of the Ireland Surname: Where does the last name Ireland originate from?
According to the YourRoots database, the surname Ireland first made its appearance in records from Ireland during the early 4th century. It's important to note that these records only include exact spellings of "Ireland" and do not account for other possible variations of the surname found in other data sources.
History of the Last Name Ireland: What does the Ireland surname history look like in the early days?
From the 4th through the 10th century, the "Ireland" surname was predominantly found in Ireland. However, from the 11th century onwards, the surname started to grow significantly in England. This indicates that during these centuries, the surname Ireland was not just limited to Ireland, but had also spread to the United Kingdom.
Global Spread: Where can we find the Ireland surname today?
YourRoots data reveals that by the 17th century, the frequency of records bearing the Ireland surname began to increase in the United States, surpassing even the United Kingdom. This trend persisted through the 18th and 19th centuries. Today, the "Ireland" surname can be found in numerous countries around the globe, with the highest frequency in the United States and in the United Kingdom. However, the surname also appears in other regions worldwide, showcasing its global spread.
Explore Ireland last name heritage and Ireland surname origin based on YourRoots Map data

Famous People With Ireland Surame?
Northern Ireland
Northern Ireland (Tuaisceart Éireann) is a part of the United Kingdom located in the north-east of the island of Ireland. Established in 1921, it was created through the partition of Ireland, with a unionist majority in the north-eastern counties. The region has a complex history, marked by violence, particularly during the Troubles conflict from the late 1960s to the late 1990s. Since the Good Friday Agreement in 1998, efforts for peace and reconciliation have been ongoing. Northern Ireland's economy has seen growth since the late 1990s, and its cultural identity is influenced by both Irish and British traditions. The region also has separate sports teams for international competitions.
Jill Ireland
Jill Dorothy Ireland (April 24, 1936 – May 18, 1990) was an English actress and singer known for her roles in films alongside her second husband, Charles Bronson. She appeared in 16 films with Bronson and also worked as a producer on some of his projects. Ireland bravely battled breast cancer and became a spokesperson for the American Cancer Society. Her legacy includes books chronicling her fight against the disease and a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. She is remembered for her talent, resilience, and contributions to the film industry.
President of Ireland
Michael Daniel Higgins (April 18, 1941 - ) is the current President of Ireland, serving since 2011. He is known for his dedication to upholding the Irish constitution and laws, representing Ireland both domestically and internationally. Higgins was re-elected for a second term in 2018. As the head of state, he appoints the government, judiciary, and signs bills into law. Higgins also serves as the Supreme Commander of the Defence Forces, representing Ireland in foreign affairs. With a background in politics and academia, Higgins brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to his role as the ceremonial leader of Ireland.
Marin Ireland
Marin Yvonne Ireland (born August 30, 1979) is an American actress known for her work in theatre and independent films. She has received nominations for two Independent Spirit Awards and a Tony Award. Ireland gained recognition for her roles in Neil LaBute's play Reasons to Be Pretty and the films Rachel Getting Married and The Understudy. She has also appeared in acclaimed productions like Hell or High Water, The Miseducation of Cameron Post, and The Irishman. Ireland has made a mark in television, starring in Sneaky Pete, The Umbrella Academy, and Y: The Last Man. Her leading role in the horror film The Dark and the Wicked earned her critical acclaim.
Kathy Ireland
Kathleen Marie Ireland (born Mar 20, 1963) is an American entrepreneur, actress, author, and former fashion model. She gained fame as a supermodel in the 1980s and 1990s, appearing on numerous magazine covers, including Sports Illustrated. In 1993, she founded kathy ireland Worldwide, a brand licensing company that has made her one of the wealthiest former models in the world. With a personal fortune of $420 million by 2015, Ireland's company generated $3.1 billion in retail sales in 2021. She has also ventured into film and television, with appearances in various shows and movies. Ireland's successful transition from model to business mogul has been an inspiration to many.
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