Medina Last Name Origin, History, and Meaning
Where did the surname Medina come from? What does the surname Medina mean? Discover the history and meaning of the last name Medina and family migration on YourRoots Map.
Surname Medina Origin: What does the last name Medina mean?
The surname Medina is a common Mediterranean toponymic surname of Spanish-Moorish and Sephardic Jewish origin. It was derived from various cities and towns in Spain, Italy, and Malta, with roots dating back to the Muslim rule of Al Andalus and the times of Islam in Malta. The term "Medina" originates from the Arabic word madƒ´nah, meaning "city," and many families adopted it as a surname during the Reconquista. The surname was later imported to the Spanish colonies by conquistadores, and it remains prevalent among Moriscos and Conversos/Marranos.
YourRoots data indicates that the surname Medina first appeared in records from Mexico around the early 17th century and remained closely associated with Mexico and Germany from the 16th to the 18th centuries. Over time, the Medina surname spread globally, with significant records found in countries like Spain, the United States, Germany, and beyond. Today, the surname continues to be prominent in various regions worldwide, reflecting a rich historical legacy and diverse cultural influences.
Medina Last Name History: Where did the last name Medina come from?
Origin of Medina Surname: Where does the last name Medina originate from?
According to YourRoots data, the surname Medina first appeared in records from Mexico around the early 17th century. Please note that this reflects only YourRoots data for the exact Medina spelling and does not include other record sources or surname variations.
History of the Last Name Medina: What does the Medina surname history look like in the early days?
The Medina surname remained closely associated with Mexico and Germany from the 16th to the 18th centuries. YourRoots data also shows Medina family records in countries like Spain, indicating global spread over the centuries.
Global Spread: Where can we find the Medina surname today?
By the 20th century, the volume of records with the Medina surname grew significantly in Mexico, the United States, and other countries. The Medina surname remains prominent in Mexico, the United States, Germany, Spain, and various other regions worldwide.
Explore Medina last name heritage and Medina surname origin based on YourRoots Map data
VIEW THE ORIGIN OF SURNAME MEDINA
Famous People With Medina Surame?
Lina Medina
Lina Marcela Medina de Jurado (September 23, 1933) made history as the youngest confirmed mother at just five years old. Born in Peru, she gave birth to son Gerardo at the age of five years, seven months, and 21 days. Her case garnered international attention, with doctors confirming her pregnancy was due to precocious puberty. Despite the controversial circumstances, Lina went on to work as a secretary and raise a second son in later years. Her story continues to fascinate and spark discussions about child welfare and early motherhood.
Ernest Medina
Ernest Lou Medina (August 27, 1936 – May 8, 2018) was a captain in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War. He was the commanding officer of Company C, 1st Battalion, 20th Infantry, known for the My Lai massacre. Despite being court-martialed in 1971 for his involvement, he was acquitted. Born into a Mexican-American family in New Mexico, Medina served in the Army for 12 years before his controversial role in the war. After resigning, he worked in real estate and passed away at the age of 81. Medina's actions at My Lai remain a significant part of U.S. military history and cultural references in songs.
Facundo Medina
Facundo Axel Medina (May 28, 1999 - present) is an Argentine professional footballer known for his versatility as a centre-back or left-back. He currently plays for Ligue 1 club Lens and the Argentina national team. Starting his career with River Plate, he later moved to Talleres before joining Lens in 2020. With impressive performances, he has scored crucial goals for his team, showcasing his talent on the field. Representing Argentina at various youth levels, he has also earned call-ups to the senior squad, making his debut in a World Cup qualifying match. Medina is a rising star in the world of football, with a promising future ahead.
Patricia Medina
Patricia Paz Maria Medina (July 19, 1919 – April 28, 2012) was a British actress known for her roles in classic films like Phantom of the Rue Morgue and Mr. Arkadin. Born in Liverpool, England, to a Spanish lawyer and an English mother, she began her acting career in the late 1930s. Medina worked with notable actors like Orson Welles and appeared in popular TV shows such as Zorro and Have Gun – Will Travel. She also published an autobiography, Laid Back in Hollywood, in 1998. With a career spanning from Hollywood to television, Medina left a lasting impact on the entertainment industry.
Benny Medina
Benny Medina (January 24, 1958) is an American record executive, talent manager, and television producer. Born into a poor family in East Los Angeles, California, he overcame adversity to work with legendary Motown acts and urban artists at Warner Bros. Records. Medina managed stars like Jennifer Lopez and Mariah Carey, shaping their successful careers. Alongside his entertainment ventures, he faced sexual assault allegations in 2017. Despite challenges, Benny Medina continues to make a mark in the entertainment industry.
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