Silva Last Name Origin, History, and Meaning
Where did the surname Silva come from? What does the surname Silva mean? Discover the history and meaning of the last name Silva and family migration on YourRoots Map.
Surname Silva Origin: What does the last name Silva mean?
The Silva surname has Portuguese and Galician origins, derived from the Latin word "silva," which means "forest" or "woodland." It is associated with the House of Silva and is widespread in Portuguese-speaking countries like Brazil. The name has historical significance in regions like Galicia in Spain and former Portuguese colonies in the Americas, Africa, and Asia. The movement of people has led to its use in various places, making it one of the most common surnames globally.
YourRoots data indicates that the Silva surname has been present in Portugal since the early 11th century, with significant growth in Brazil from the 16th to the 18th centuries. By the 20th century, Silva family records expanded in Brazil, the United States, and other countries worldwide. Today, the Silva surname remains prominent in Brazil, the United States, and across the globe, reflecting a legacy of Portuguese heritage and widespread use in diverse cultures and regions.
Silva Last Name History: Where did the last name Silva come from?
Origin of Silva Surname: Where does the last name Silva originate from?
According to YourRoots data, the surname Silva first appeared in records from Portugal around the early 11th century. Please note that this reflects only YourRoots data for the exact Silva spelling and does not include other record sources or surname variations.
History of the Last Name Silva: What does the Silva surname history look like in the early days?
The Silva surname remained closely associated with Portugal from the 11th to the 15th centuries and then saw significant growth in Brazil from the 16th to the 18th centuries. YourRoots data also shows Silva family records in the United States from the 19th century, indicating global spread over the centuries.
Global Spread: Where can we find the Silva surname today?
By the 20th century, the volume of records with the Silva surname grew significantly in Brazil and the United States. The Silva surname remains prominent in these countries. It appears in many countries, including Brazil, the United States, and other regions globally.
Explore Silva last name heritage and Silva surname origin based on YourRoots Map data
VIEW THE ORIGIN OF SURNAME SILVA
Famous People With Silva Surame?
Henry Silva
Henry Silva (Sep 23, 1926 – Sep 14, 2022) was an American actor known for his "dark, sepulchral" looks and tough guy roles in crime and action films. He starred in movies like Ocean's 11 (1960) and The Manchurian Candidate (1962), as well as the Italian genre poliziotteschi. Silva also appeared in TV shows like The Outer Limits and Mission Impossible. He was the voice of supervillain Bane in the DC Animated Universe. With a career spanning over 50 years, he left a lasting impact on film and television.
Stunt Silva
Stunt Silva (born Selvam) is an Indian stunt actor, action director, and stunt co-ordinator known for his work in Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, Kannada, and Hindi films. Starting as a male nurse, he transitioned to stunt work after meeting a dance choreographer from the film industry. He has worked on over one hundred Indian films as the lead stunt director, winning critical acclaim for his work in movies like "Yamadonga" and "Mankatha." Silva has also appeared in films as a supporting antagonist, showcasing his versatility in the industry. He continues to be a prominent figure in the Indian film industry, known for his expertise in creating thrilling action sequences.
Chica da Silva
Francisca da Silva de Oliveira (c. 1732–1796), known as Chica da Silva, was a Brazilian woman who rose from slavery to become wealthy and powerful in colonial Brazil. Her life has inspired numerous works in television, films, music, and literature, earning her the title of the slave who became a queen. Chica's story highlights the complexities of race and gender in colonial society.
Leslie Silva
Leslie Ann Silva (born April 21, 1968) is an American actress known for her roles in television series like Odyssey 5, Providence, and Shades of Blue. She began her acting career in 1995 and has since appeared in various shows, including So Help Me Todd and Poker Face. In addition to her acting work, Silva is also an activist. Raised in New York, she holds a BFA in dramatic arts from the University of Connecticut and an MFA in drama from the Juilliard School. With a passion for both performing and social causes, Silva continues to make an impact in the entertainment industry.
Lucius Flavius Silva
Lucius Flavius Silva Nonius Bassus (circa AD 43 – date unknown) was a Roman general known for his siege of the mountain fortress of Masada in 72 AD. Leading the army against Jewish rebels, he breached the defenses, leading to the rebels' mass suicide. Silva's victory marked the end of Jewish resistance to Roman rule. After his military success, he served as governor of Judea for eight years. Silva's legacy includes the construction of an amphitheater in his hometown and archaeological finds confirming his historical achievements.
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