Motley Last Name Origin, History, and Meaning
Where did the surname Motley come from? What does the surname Motley mean? Discover the history and meaning of the last name Motley and family migration on YourRoots Map.
Surname Motley Origin: What does the last name Motley mean?
The surname Motley originated in England around the early 16th century, according to YourRoots data. It has been closely associated with England in the 16th and 17th centuries and started gaining prominence in the United States from the 18th century onwards. By the 20th century, the Motley surname had significantly increased in records in the United States, where it remains prominent today.
YourRoots data confirms the presence of the Motley surname in the United States, showcasing its growth and significance over the centuries. The surname has a strong historical connection to England and has expanded globally, with a notable presence in the United States. It reflects a rich history and continues to maintain its prominence in various regions, highlighting its enduring legacy.
Motley Last Name History: Where did the last name Motley come from?
Origin of Motley Surname: Where does the last name Motley originate from?
According to YourRoots data, the surname Motley first appeared in records from England around the early 16th century. Please note that this reflects only YourRoots data for the exact Motley spelling and does not include other record sources or surname variations.
History of the Last Name Motley: What does the Motley surname history look like in the early days?
The Motley surname remained closely associated with England in the 16th and 17th centuries and started growing significantly in the United States from the 18th century onwards.
Global Spread: Where can we find the Motley surname today?
By the 20th century, the volume of records with the Motley surname grew significantly in the United States. The Motley surname remains prominent in the United States.
Explore Motley last name heritage and Motley surname origin based on YourRoots Map data

Famous People With Motley Surame?
Johnathan Motley
Johnathan Landus Motley (born May 4, 1995) is an American professional basketball player known for his time in the NBA with the Dallas Mavericks and Los Angeles Clippers. He played college basketball for the Baylor Bears, earning All-American honors and winning the Karl Malone Award for the country's best power forward. Motley has also played internationally in leagues such as the Korean Basketball League and the Turkish Basketball Super League. Currently, he is showcasing his skills with Hapoel Tel Aviv in the Israeli Premier League, making a name for himself as a versatile and talented player.
Constance Baker Motley
Constance Baker Motley (September 14, 1921 – September 28, 2005) was an American jurist and politician known for her pivotal role in the civil rights movement. She was the first Black woman to argue at the Supreme Court, winning nine out of ten landmark civil rights cases. Motley served as a Judge of the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York, becoming the first Caribbean-American woman appointed to the federal judiciary. Beyond her legal career, she was also elected as the first female President of the Borough of Manhattan, where she fought for the revitalization of underserved communities like Harlem and East Harlem.
Marion Motley
Marion Motley (June 5, 1920 – June 27, 1999) was an American professional football player known for his versatility as a fullback and linebacker for the Cleveland Browns in the AAFC and NFL. He was a dominant force on both offense and defense, setting records for rushing yards per carry. Motley, along with teammate Bill Willis, broke the color barrier in professional football, facing racism with resilience. Elected to the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1968, Motley's impact on the game and his courage in the face of discrimination continue to inspire generations of athletes.
Archibald Motley
Archibald John Motley, Jr. (Oct 7, 1891 – Jan 16, 1981) was an American visual artist known for his vibrant depictions of the African-American experience in Chicago during the 1920s-40s. He was a major figure in the Harlem Renaissance, focusing on creating positive representations of black culture through his colorful and multidimensional artwork. Motley's mixed-race ancestry influenced his exploration of racial identity in his art, reflecting the complexities of black life. Despite facing racial prejudice in his lifetime, he left a lasting impact on the art world with his modernist-realist style. Motley's legacy continues to inspire artists and celebrate the richness of African-American heritage.
John Lothrop Motley
John Lothrop Motley (April 15, 1814 – May 29, 1877) was an American author, diplomat, and historian known for his works on the Netherlands. He wrote *The Rise of the Dutch Republic* and *History of the United Netherlands*, gaining popularity for his detailed accounts of Dutch history. Motley also served as United States Minister to Austria and later to the United Kingdom, where he helped prevent European intervention during the American Civil War. His intellectual prowess and diplomatic contributions have left a lasting impact on American history and diplomacy.
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