Ruthven Last Name Origin, History, and Meaning
Where did the surname Ruthven come from? What does the surname Ruthven mean? Discover the history and meaning of the last name Ruthven and family migration on YourRoots Map.
Surname Ruthven Origin: What does the last name Ruthven mean?
The surname Ruthven has its origins in Scotland, with records dating back to the early 12th century. It is believed to have been a prominent surname in Scotland from the 12th to the 18th century, and has since spread globally, with significant records found in the United States by the 19th century. Today, the Ruthven surname remains prevalent in Scotland and can also be found in countries such as the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.
YourRoots data confirms the historical presence of the Ruthven surname in Scotland and its subsequent global spread. The surname has maintained its significance over the centuries, with notable records in various countries, showcasing its enduring legacy and widespread distribution across different regions and cultures.
Ruthven Last Name History: Where did the last name Ruthven come from?
Origin of Ruthven Surname: Where does the last name Ruthven originate from?
According to YourRoots data, the surname Ruthven first appeared in records from Scotland (United Kingdom) around the early 12th century. Please note that this reflects only YourRoots data for the exact Ruthven spelling and does not include other record sources or surname variations.
History of the Last Name Ruthven: What does the Ruthven surname history look like in the early days?
The Ruthven surname remained closely associated with Scotland (United Kingdom) from the 12th to the 18th century. YourRoots data also shows Ruthven family records in countries like the United States, indicating global spread over the centuries.
Global Spread: Where can we find the Ruthven surname today?
By the 19th century, the volume of records with the Ruthven surname grew significantly in the United States. The Ruthven surname remains prominent in Scotland (United Kingdom) and appears in many countries, including the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.
Explore Ruthven last name heritage and Ruthven surname origin based on YourRoots Map data

Famous People With Ruthven Surame?
Tyler Ruthven
Tyler James Ruthven (July 18, 1988) is an American former professional soccer player known for his time with the New York Red Bulls in Major League Soccer. Ruthven began his career in the USL before making the jump to MLS, where he made a name for himself as a solid defender. He also played for Atlanta United 2 in the USL Championship before retiring in 2019. Off the field, he is the son of former MLB pitcher Dick Ruthven, adding to his family's sports legacy.
Dick Ruthven
Richard David Ruthven (March 27, 1951) is a former American professional baseball player known for his time as a right-handed pitcher in Major League Baseball. He played for the Philadelphia Phillies, Atlanta Braves, and Chicago Cubs, earning two National League All-Star selections. Ruthven was a key player on the 1980 world champion Phillies team and the 1984 NL Eastern Division champion Cubs. Despite injuries, he had standout seasons with notable performances in various games throughout his career.
Malise Ruthven
Malise Walter Maitland Knox Hore-Ruthven (born May 14, 1942) is an Anglo-Irish academic and writer known for his expertise in Islamic studies, cultural history, and religion. Educated at Eton College and Trinity College, Cambridge, Ruthven has taught at various universities worldwide and is a renowned commentator on Middle Eastern affairs. He is the author of several books exploring topics such as Islam, fundamentalism, and the social impact of religion. With a strong background in journalism, Ruthven's work has been featured in prestigious publications like The New York Review of Books and The Guardian, solidifying his reputation as a leading voice in his field.
Clan Ruthven
The Clan Ruthven (no birth and death dates available) was a prominent Lowland Scottish clan with a rich history. Originating from Perthshire, Scotland, the Ruthvens were known for their involvement in the Wars of Scottish Independence and their feuds with other clans. Notable figures like William Ruthven, 1st Earl of Gowrie, played significant roles in Scottish politics and even orchestrated the infamous "Ruthven Raid." Despite their tumultuous history, the Ruthven name eventually fell out of favor in Scotland due to the controversial events surrounding the Gowrie Conspiracy. The clan's legacy remains a fascinating chapter in Scottish history.
Raid of Ruthven
The Raid of Ruthven (23 Aug 1582) was a Scottish political conspiracy led by William Ruthven, 1st Earl of Gowrie, to kidnap King James VI of Scotland. The nobles aimed to reform the government, limit French influence, and prevent Mary, Queen of Scots from ruling. Known as the "Gowrie Regime," their rule lasted around 10 months. The coup was opposed by figures like the Duke of Lennox and Earl of Arran. The regime favored an ultra-Protestant policy and was approved by the Church of Scotland. Ruthven's debt from court spending was a motivating factor. Despite their efforts, James VI escaped after 10 months of captivity.
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