Strauss Last Name Origin, History, and Meaning
Where did the surname Strauss come from? What does the surname Strauss mean? Discover the history and meaning of the last name Strauss and family migration on YourRoots Map.
Surname Strauss Origin: What does the last name Strauss mean?
The surname Strauss is a common Germanic name with a rich history dating back at least a thousand years. Originating in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, it is derived from the modern German word for ostrich, symbolizing strength and nobility. The name has been used by families in the Germanic region for centuries, with early Jewish bearers residing in medieval Frankfurt. When Napoleon made surnames obligatory in 1808, more Jewish families adopted the Straus(s) name, further solidifying its presence.
YourRoots data indicates that the Strauss surname first appeared in records from Germany during the 17th century, spreading to countries like Austria and Switzerland over time. By the 20th century, the name had gained significant prominence in regions such as the United States, Russia, and Europe, including France and the United Kingdom. Today, the Strauss surname continues to be prevalent globally, with a strong presence in countries like Australia, Canada, and Argentina, reflecting its enduring legacy and widespread influence.
Strauss Last Name History: Where did the last name Strauss come from?
Origin of Strauss Surname: Where does the last name Strauss originate from?
According to YourRoots data, the surname Strauss first appeared in records from Germany during the 17th century. Please note that this reflects only YourRoots data for the exact Strauss spelling and does not include other record sources or surname variations.
History of the Last Name Strauss: What does the Strauss surname history look like in the early days?
The Strauss surname started growing notably in Germany during the 17th century. YourRoots data also shows Strauss family records in countries like Austria and Switzerland, indicating global spread over the centuries.
Global Spread: Where can we find the Strauss surname today?
By the 20th century, the volume of records with the Strauss surname grew significantly in Germany, Austria, Switzerland, the United States, and Russia. The Strauss surname remains prominent in these regions. It appears in many countries, including France, the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, and Argentina.
Explore Strauss last name heritage and Strauss surname origin based on YourRoots Map data

Famous People With Strauss Surame?
Lewis Strauss
Lewis Lichtenstein Strauss (January 31, 1896 – January 21, 1974) was an influential American government official, businessman, and naval officer. Known for his role in the United States Atomic Energy Commission (AEC) during the Cold War era, he played a significant part in the development of nuclear weapons and energy policy. Despite his contributions, he faced controversy for his security clearance hearing of physicist J. Robert Oppenheimer. Strauss's legacy is a complex mix of achievements and criticisms, making him a polarizing figure in American history.
Richard Strauss
Richard Georg Strauss (Jun 11, 1864 - Sep 8, 1949) was a renowned German composer and conductor known for his influential tone poems and operas. He was a key figure in the late Romantic and early modern music eras, often compared to Richard Wagner and Franz Liszt. With a career spanning nearly eighty years, his compositions like "Also sprach Zarathustra" and operas such as "Salome" and "Der Rosenkavalier" are still celebrated today. Despite controversy over his collaboration with the Nazis, his dedication to music and family legacy, including his Jewish daughter-in-law, remains a significant part of his legacy.
Levi Strauss
Levi Strauss (February 26, 1829 – September 26, 1902) was a German-born American businessman who founded Levi Strauss & Co., the first company to manufacture blue jeans. Born Löb Strauß in Bavaria, he immigrated to the U.S. and opened a branch in San Francisco during the gold rush. Partnering with tailor Jacob W. Davis, they patented riveted work pants, revolutionizing the garment industry. Strauss was a philanthropist, helping establish a synagogue and funding charities. His legacy includes the Levi Strauss Foundation and a museum in his birthplace. Inducted into the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum, his iconic brand, Levi's, remains a global fashion staple.
Leo Strauss
Leo Strauss (September 20, 1899 – October 18, 1973) was an American scholar of political philosophy known for his teachings at the University of Chicago. His work focused on interpreting classical texts from philosophers like Plato and Aristotle, applying their ideas to modern political theory. Trained in the neo-Kantian tradition, Strauss authored several books and articles on prominent figures in philosophy. With a background in Jewish studies and a strong network of intellectual friends, he made significant contributions to the field of political science, leaving a lasting impact on generations of students.
Peter Strauss
Peter Lawrence Strauss (February 20, 1947 - ) is an American actor known for his roles in television miniseries in the 1970s and 1980s. He won an Emmy Award for his role in "The Jericho Mile" and starred in "Kane & Abel" and "Rich Man, Poor Man." Strauss also appeared in films like "Soldier Blue" and "Spacehunter: Adventures in the Forbidden Zone." He is married to Rachel Ticotin and is involved in citrus production and conservation efforts. Strauss's diverse career includes voice acting in animated series and portraying historical figures like Joseph P. Kennedy Jr. and the U.S. President in "XXX: State of the Union."
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