Peterson Last Name Origin, History, and Meaning
Where did the surname Peterson come from? What does the surname Peterson mean? Discover the history and meaning of the last name Peterson and family migration on YourRoots Map.
Surname Peterson Origin: What does the last name Peterson mean?
The surname Peterson/Petersen is of Scandinavian origin, with its meaning rooted in the patronymic tradition, signifying "son of Peter." The given name Peter, derived from the Greek word for "rock" or "stone," has been a popular choice historically due to the Christian apostle Peter. This surname is most commonly found in European countries such as Sweden, Denmark, Germany, Holland, and Brussels, particularly in the northwestern region. With an estimated 700 variant spellings, the form Peterson may have originated from Danish Pedersen or Petersen, with Danish immigrants often altering the spelling when moving to English-speaking countries.
YourRoots data reveals that the Peterson surname has a long history, primarily in Sweden, where the correct spelling is Peterson. Over time, this surname has spread globally, with significant presence in countries like the United States. From its origins in Scandinavia to its widespread adoption around the world, the Peterson surname reflects a rich cultural and historical legacy that continues to resonate with individuals of diverse backgrounds and origins.
Peterson Last Name History: Where did the last name Peterson come from?
Origin of Peterson Surname: Where does the last name Peterson originate from?
The Peterson surname has its earliest recorded presence in the United Kingdom, specifically in England, dating back to the 15th century, according to the YourRoots database. This data strictly pertains to the exact "Peterson" spelling within the YourRoots database.
History of the Last Name Peterson: What does the Peterson surname history look like in the early days?
The "Peterson" surname was initially found in England during the 15th and 16th centuries. However, a significant increase in the frequency of this surname was observed in the United States from the 17th century onwards. While the data is primarily focused on the United States, it implies a gradual spreading of the Peterson surname over time.
Global Spread: Where can we find the Peterson surname today?
By the 17th century, the frequency of records with the Peterson surname saw a substantial rise in the United States, surpassing the United Kingdom, and this trend continued into the 18th, 19th, and 20th centuries. As per the YourRoots data, the Peterson surname is most prevalent in the United States today. However, its presence is not limited to the United States and can be found across multiple countries globally.
Explore Peterson last name heritage and Peterson surname origin based on YourRoots Map data
VIEW THE ORIGIN OF SURNAME PETERSON
Famous People With Peterson Surame?
Jordan Peterson
Jordan Bernt Peterson (June 12, 1962 - present) is a Canadian psychologist, author, and media commentator known for his views on cultural and political issues. He gained fame for his critiques of political correctness and identity politics, sparking both support and criticism. Peterson is the author of best-selling books like "12 Rules for Life" and "Beyond Order," and he has a strong presence on YouTube and podcasts. While he has faced controversy for his stance on climate change, Peterson continues to engage in public discourse and recently signed a content distribution deal with The Daily Wire.
Cassandra Peterson
Cassandra Gay Peterson (born Sep 17, 1951) is an American actress best known for her iconic role as Elvira, Mistress of the Dark. She gained fame hosting "Elvira's Movie Macabre," a B movie presentation on Los Angeles television. Peterson's character, based on a "Valley girl" persona, led to films like "Elvira: Mistress of the Dark" and appearances in various TV shows and events. With her signature dark attire and campy humor, Elvira has become a beloved figure in horror and pop culture, captivating audiences for decades.
Adrian Peterson
Adrian Lewis Peterson (né Brown; born Mar 21, 1985) is a retired American football running back known for his exceptional career in the NFL. Peterson played for notable teams such as the Minnesota Vikings, New Orleans Saints, and Washington Redskins, showcasing his talent and earning numerous accolades. He set records, won awards, and overcame injuries throughout his fifteen seasons, solidifying his place as one of the greatest running backs in NFL history.
Amanda Peterson
Phyllis Amanda Peterson (July 8, 1971 – July 3, 2015) was an American actress best known for her role as Cindy Mancini in the 1987 film Can't Buy Me Love and Sunny Sisk on the NBC series A Year in the Life. She began her career at a young age, appearing in TV shows and commercials before gaining fame in the 80s. Despite her promising start, personal struggles led to her early retirement. Peterson's life was marked by talent, success, and tragic circumstances, leaving behind a legacy in the entertainment industry.
Patrick Peterson
Patrick De'mon Peterson Jr. (né Johnson; born July 11, 1990) is an American former professional football cornerback known for his stellar career in the NFL. He played for the Arizona Cardinals, Minnesota Vikings, and Pittsburgh Steelers during his thirteen seasons in the league. Peterson earned numerous accolades, including being selected to the Pro Bowl and All-Pro first-team multiple times. His exceptional skills on the field solidified his reputation as one of the greatest cornerbacks of his era. Aside from his football career, Peterson also shined in college, winning prestigious awards for his defensive prowess while playing for the LSU Tigers.
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