Knox Last Name Origin, History, and Meaning
Where did the surname Knox come from? What does the surname Knox mean? Discover the history and meaning of the last name Knox and family migration on YourRoots Map.
Surname Knox Origin: What does the last name Knox mean?
The surname Knox is of Scottish origin, stemming from the Scottish Gaelic word "cnoc" or the Old English "cnocc," meaning a hillock or a round-topped hill. Records from Scotland in the early 15th century show the first appearances of the Knox surname. Over the centuries, it has spread to countries like the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and more, becoming a common name among various populations.
YourRoots data confirms the presence of the Knox surname in the United Kingdom since the 15th to 16th centuries, with a gradual increase in the United States by the 17th century. Today, the Knox name can be found in numerous countries worldwide, indicating a significant global spread of this Scottish-origin surname. The surname Knox carries a historical legacy tied to Scottish roots and continues to be prevalent in diverse regions and cultures in contemporary times.
Knox Last Name History: Where did the last name Knox come from?
Origin of Knox Surname: Where does the last name Knox originate from?
According to YourRoots data, the surname Knox first made its appearance in records from Scotland in the United Kingdom during the early 15th century. Please note that these findings are based on the exact spelling of "Knox" as found in the YourRoots database and may not take into account other possible variations of the surname.
History of the Last Name Knox: What does the Knox surname history look like in the early days?
The “Knox” surname consistently appeared in records from Scotland (United Kingdom) from the 15th to 16th century. As the centuries progressed, YourRoots data shows a gradual increase in the frequency of the Knox surname in the United States, hinting at an early spread of the surname from the United Kingdom to the United States. However, the specifics of this spread and the countries involved would require a more detailed analysis.
Global Spread: Where can we find the Knox surname today?
By the 17th century, the volume of records for the Knox surname saw a considerable increase in the United States, a trend that continued through the 18th and 19th centuries. As per the latest data, the "Knox" surname is most frequently found in the United States, but it also appears in multiple other countries worldwide. A comprehensive list would include the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, Ireland, France, Germany, and Sweden, among others, indicating a significant global spread of the Knox surname.
Explore Knox last name heritage and Knox surname origin based on YourRoots Map data

Famous People With Knox Surame?
Amanda Knox
Amanda Marie Knox (born July 9, 1987) is an American author, activist, and journalist. She gained international attention after being wrongfully convicted in the 2007 murder of Meredith Kercher in Italy. After spending almost four years in prison, Knox was definitively acquitted in 2015. Despite the legal battles, she emerged as a prominent figure, advocating for criminal justice reform and gender equality. Knox's story has been the subject of books, documentaries, and media coverage, shedding light on the complexities of the legal system and the power of resilience.
Fort Knox
Fort Knox (no individual person associated) is a U.S. Army installation in Kentucky, known for housing a large portion of the country's gold reserves. Named after Henry Knox, a Revolutionary War figure, Fort Knox was a key training center for the Army, including the Armor School and the Human Resources Command. The adjacent Bullion Depository, often called Fort Knox, is a fortified vault holding over half of the nation's gold reserves. The site also houses the General George Patton Museum, showcasing the history of the Army's Cavalry and Armored forces. With a rich history dating back to the Civil War, Fort Knox remains an essential part of U.S. military heritage.
John Knox
John Knox (c. 1514 – November 24, 1572) was a Scottish minister and theologian who played a key role in the country's Reformation. He founded the Church of Scotland and led the Protestant movement against Catholic practices. Knox's influence extended to England, where he served as a royal chaplain under King Edward VI. He later moved to Geneva, where he met John Calvin and gained further insight into Reformed theology. Upon his return to Scotland, Knox led the Protestant Reformation, shaping the newly created Reformed Church. His writings, including "The History of the Reformation in Scotland," continue to be studied for their impact on religious history.
Rob Knox
Robert Arthur Knox (Aug 21, 1989 – May 24, 2008) was an English actor known for his role as Marcus Belby in the Harry Potter film series. He tragically passed away at the young age of 18 after bravely intervening in a fight to protect his brother. Knox's legacy lives on through the annual Rob Knox Film Festival, which supports young local talent in the arts. His talent and bravery continue to inspire many in the film industry and beyond.
Henry Knox
Henry Knox (Jul 25, 1750 – Oct 25, 1806) was an American military officer, politician, and Founding Father of the United States. He served as a senior general of the Continental Army during the Revolutionary War, overseeing the War Department and becoming the first Secretary of War. Knox is known for his instrumental role in driving the British out of Boston and establishing artillery training centers. He also initiated the Society of the Cincinnati and advocated for federal government supremacy in Indian affairs. Knox's legacy lives on as the namesake of Fort Knox in Kentucky.
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