Francisca is a name of Latin origin, derived from the word "franciscus," which means "free" or "from France." It is a feminine form of the name Francis, which was originally given to people from France.
The name Francisca has been popular throughout history, particularly among Catholics due to its association with Saint Francis of Assisi. The saint was born in Italy in the 13th century and is known for his love of nature and animals, as well as his dedication to helping the poor and sick.
Despite its popularity among Catholics, the name Francisca has also been used by non-religious families who simply appreciate its sound or meaning. It has been particularly popular in Spain and Latin America, where it is often shortened to Fran or Cuca.
Over time, variations of the name Francisca have emerged, such as Francisco for males, Franziska for Germans, and Francesc for Catalans. However, the original form of the name remains Francisca, a strong and regal-sounding name with a rich history behind it.
Based on the statistical data provided, the name Francisca has been given to a total of 61 girls over the years in the United States. Here's an overview:
* The name was quite popular during the early 20th century with six births each in 1917 and 1920.
* After a decrease in popularity, it experienced a resurgence in the late 20th century:
+ Six births in 1971
+ Six births in 1980
+ Six births in 1981
+ Five births in 1986
+ Seven births in 1987
+ Seven births in 1993
While the popularity of the name Francisca has varied over time, it is clear that there have been periods where it was quite commonly chosen for newborn girls in the United States. It's fascinating to see how naming trends can fluctuate and evolve throughout different decades and centuries.