Susan is a name of English origin, derived from the Latin name Susanna, which means "lily" or "rose." The name has been in use since medieval times and was popularized by John Milton's epic poem "Paradise Lost," in which he wrote about a character named Susan.
The name Susan gained popularity during the Victorian era in England and remains a classic choice today. It is often associated with qualities such as grace, elegance, and beauty, reflecting its floral origins. Despite being a traditional name, Susan also has a modern and sophisticated ring to it, making it a timeless option for parents looking for a name that will stand the test of time.
Historically, the name Susanna appears in various religious texts and artworks throughout history. In the Old Testament, Susanna is a woman who remained faithful to her beliefs despite being falsely accused. Meanwhile, in art history, numerous paintings depicting the story of Susanna and the Elders have been created by renowned artists such as Titian and Artemisia Gentileschi.
In popular culture, Susan has been portrayed by various actresses in films and television shows throughout the years. Some notable examples include Susan Hayward's performance in "I'll Cry Tomorrow" (1955), Susan Sarandon's role in "Thelma & Louise" (1991), and Susan Davis' portrayal of Senator Barbara Boxer in the TV series "The West Wing" (1999-2006).
Overall, Susan is a name with a rich history and elegant origins that continues to captivate parents looking for a classic yet sophisticated name choice for their daughter.
The name Susan has a rich history and popularity in the United States, with a total of over one million births recorded from 1880 to 2023.
Throughout the late 19th century, Susan was a popular choice for parents, with an average of around 300 births per year between 1880 and 1899. The name reached its peak popularity in the early 20th century, with over 4,000 births recorded in 1911, and over 8,000 births in both 1915 and 1916.
The post-World War II era saw a significant increase in the number of Susans being born. In 1946, there were over 28,000 births, and this trend continued throughout the 1950s and early 1960s. The name Susan reached its peak popularity in the United States in 1957, with a total of 45,175 births recorded that year.
However, like many classic names, Susan began to fall out of favor in the latter half of the 20th century. By the 1980s, there were fewer than 3,000 births per year, and this number continued to decline throughout the 1990s and early 2000s.
Despite its decline in popularity, Susan remains a beloved name with a long history in the United States. As of 2023, there have been over one million Susans born in the United States since 1880. This statistic is a testament to the enduring appeal of this classic and timeless name.
In conclusion, while Susan may not be as popular today as it once was, its rich history and long-standing popularity make it a beloved and iconic name in American culture. Parents who choose the name Susan for their daughters are joining a long tradition of parents who have done the same throughout the past century and a half.