Sullivan is a name of Irish origin, derived from the Gaelic name O'Sullivan. The name means "dark-eyed one" and is believed to have been given to individuals with dark eyes or black hair. The surname Sullivan was borne by a prominent family in Ireland who were descended from the O'Sullivans of Duhallow in County Cork.
The Sullivan clan played an important role in Irish history, particularly during the Elizabethan period when they fought against English rule. The most famous member of the Sullivan family is probably Murrough O'Brien, the 1st Earl of Inchiquin, who was known for his military prowess and his support of the Catholic cause.
The name Sullivan has been popular in Ireland and other parts of the world for centuries. It became particularly common in North America during the late 19th and early 20th centuries when many Irish immigrants settled there. Today, Sullivan is still a widely used surname and given name, with people bearing this name found all over the globe.
In literature and popular culture, some notable figures named Sullivan include the American writer Edna Ferber, who won a Pulitzer Prize for her novel "Show Boat," and the Australian actor Chris Hemsworth, who is best known for playing Thor in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. The name Sullivan has also been used in numerous films, television shows, and songs throughout history.
Overall, the name Sullivan carries a rich history and cultural significance that dates back centuries. Whether as a surname or given name, it remains a popular choice among families around the world today.
The name Sullivan has a rich history of use in the United States, with records dating back to the late 19th century. Between 1884 and 1923, there were fluctuations in the number of babies named Sullivan each year, ranging from as few as 5 to as many as 19.
The popularity of the name began to rise significantly around the mid-20th century. In 1950, there were 11 recorded births with the name Sullivan, and this figure steadily increased over time. By 1960, there were 10 babies named Sullivan, and by 1970, this number had doubled to 20.
The trend continued throughout the latter half of the century, with a significant spike in popularity occurring between the late 1980s and early 1990s. In 1990, there were 26 babies named Sullivan, and by 1993, this number had more than doubled to 52.
This upward trend continued into the 21st century, with the name Sullivan reaching unprecedented levels of popularity. Between 2000 and 2023, there were over 4,700 babies named Sullivan in the United States alone, with a peak of 914 recorded births in 2023.
In conclusion, while the name Sullivan has been used consistently throughout American history, its popularity has seen significant fluctuations. However, since the mid-20th century, there has been a steady increase in the number of babies named Sullivan each year, with this trend showing no signs of slowing down anytime soon.