Nelson Last Name Origin, History, and Meaning
Where did the surname Nelson come from? What does the surname Nelson mean? Discover the history and meaning of the last name Nelson and family migration on YourRoots Map.
Surname Nelson Origin: What does the last name Nelson mean?
Nelson is a patronymic surname with English, Scottish, Irish, and Scots-Irish origins. It is derived from the name Nell or Eleanor, and is also associated with Admiral Horatio Nelson, popularizing it as a given name. The Scandinavian variants Nilsen, Nielsen, and Nilsson are anglicized to Nelson. In the early 12th century, Nelson surname records first appeared in the United Kingdom, particularly in England. By the 16th century, the surname had spread to the United States, becoming the 39th most common surname in 1990. The name has since become prominent globally, with records found in various countries worldwide.YourRoots data confirms the long-standing presence of the Nelson surname in the United Kingdom, dating back to the early 12th century. The surname saw significant growth in the United States by the 16th century, surpassing its prominence in the UK. Over the centuries, the Nelson surname has become widespread, appearing in records from countries such as France, India, Spain, Argentina, Germany, Ireland, and Nigeria. This global spread signifies the enduring legacy of the Nelson surname, reflecting a diverse heritage and cultural influence that continues to evolve in the modern era.
Nelson Last Name History: Where did the last name Nelson come from?
Origin of Nelson Surname: Where does the last name Nelson originate from?
The surname Nelson first appears in YourRoots records in the United Kingdom, specifically in England, in the early 12th century. Please remember that this information only pertains to YourRoots data for the exact ‚Äö"Nelson" spelling and does not include other sources of records or variations of the surname.
History of the Last Name Nelson: What does the Nelson surname history look like in the early days?
The Nelson surname remained closely associated with the United Kingdom, particularly England, from the 12th through the 15th century. The frequency of Nelson family records began to increase notably in the United States from the 16th century onwards, indicating a significant growth in this region during this period. It's also worth noting that the Nelson surname started to appear in other countries, signifying its global spread over the centuries.
Global Spread: Where can we find the Nelson surname today?
The volume of Nelson surname records saw a significant growth in the United States by the 16th century. It surpassed the United Kingdom by the early 17th century, a trend that continued into the 18th and 19th centuries. Today, the Nelson surname is not only prominent in the United States and United Kingdom, but it also appears in records from various other countries worldwide, suggesting its global presence and spread.
Explore Nelson last name heritage and Nelson surname origin based on YourRoots Map data
VIEW THE ORIGIN OF SURNAME NELSON
Famous People With Nelson Surame?
Willie Nelson
Willie Hugh Nelson (April 29, 1933 - ) is an American singer, guitarist, and songwriter known for his contributions to outlaw country music. With hits like "On the Road Again" and albums like Red Headed Stranger, Nelson is a country music icon. He has also acted in films, written books, and been an advocate for biofuels and marijuana legalization. Nelson's career spans decades, earning him critical and commercial success, as well as recognition as a key figure in country music history.
Judd Nelson
Judd Asher Nelson (born Nov 28, 1959) is an American actor best known for his role in the iconic coming-of-age teen film "The Breakfast Club" (1985). He was part of a group of actors known as the "Brat Pack" in the 1980s. Nelson also starred in films like "St. Elmo's Fire" (1985), "New Jack City" (1991), and the sitcom "Suddenly Susan" (1996–1999). He has appeared in various TV shows and direct-to-video films, showcasing his talent and versatility in the entertainment industry. Nelson continues to be a beloved figure in pop culture, with a career spanning decades.
Ricky Nelson
Eric Hilliard "Ricky" Nelson (May 8, 1940 – December 31, 1985) was an American musician and actor. He rose to fame as a child star on the radio and television series "The Adventures of Ozzie and Harriet" alongside his family. Nelson later became a successful recording artist with hits like "Poor Little Fool" and appeared in films like "Rio Bravo" with John Wayne. Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, Nelson's career spanned music, television, and film, making him a beloved figure in entertainment history.
Horatio Nelson, 1st Viscount Nelson
Horatio Nelson, 1st Viscount Nelson (Sep 29, 1758 – Oct 21, 1805) was a legendary Royal Navy officer known for his strategic brilliance and inspiring leadership during the French Revolutionary and Napoleonic Wars. Considered one of the greatest naval commanders in history, Nelson won decisive victories at battles like the Nile and Trafalgar. His famous signal, "England expects that every man will do his duty," is still quoted today. Nelson's death in battle secured his status as a national hero, commemorated by monuments like Nelson's Column in Trafalgar Square. His legacy continues to inspire admirers worldwide.
Russell M. Nelson
Russell Marion Nelson Sr. (born Sep 9, 1924) is an American religious leader and retired surgeon who is the 17th and current president of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Nelson was a noted heart surgeon and served as president of the Society for Vascular Surgery and the Utah Medical Association. He is recognized by the church as a prophet, seer, and revelator, and has held various leadership positions within the LDS Church. Nelson's medical career included groundbreaking work in open-heart surgery, and he contributed to the development of the heart-lung machine.
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