Hercules is a strong and powerful name of Latin origin, derived from the Roman god Hercules. In mythology, Hercules was known for his extraordinary strength and courage, undertaking twelve labors to atone for killing his wife and children in a fit of madness.
The name Hercules has a significant meaning, translating to "glory of Hera," the queen of the gods in Roman mythology. Although it is not explicitly stated that she was his mother, some versions of the myth suggest that Hera sought revenge on Hercules by sending two serpents into his crib while he was still an infant.
Despite this troublesome beginning, Hercules grew up to become a hero who performed many brave deeds and feats of strength. His legend has inspired countless tales and retellings throughout history, making him one of the most well-known figures in mythology.
Today, the name Hercules is often chosen by parents who wish to bestow their children with a powerful and meaningful name rooted in ancient tradition. While it may not be as popular as some other names, those who bear the name Hercules carry with them a rich history and a symbol of strength and valor.
The name Hercules has been a part of the American landscape for over a century, with the first recorded birth occurring in 1908. Between that year and 2023, there have been a total of 1,287 births registered with the name Hercules in the United States.
Looking at the annual statistics, we can observe several trends. The name's popularity peaked during the early to mid-20th century. The highest number of births occurred in 1928 with 29 babies named Hercules. This peak was followed by a gradual decline in popularity throughout the 1930s and 1940s, with fewer than 20 births per year.
However, after World War II, there was a resurgence of the name's popularity. Between 1950 and 1960, there were an average of 17 births per year with the name Hercules. This trend continued into the early 1970s, with an average of around 10 births per year during this period.
Since the 1980s, the popularity of the name Hercules has fluctuated but remained relatively low. There were fewer than 10 births per year in most years between 1980 and 2010. However, there was a notable increase in recent years, with 30 births recorded in 2023 alone.
These statistics demonstrate the enduring appeal of the name Hercules in America, with its popularity ebbing and flowing over time. Despite these fluctuations, the name has maintained a consistent presence among American baby names for over a century.