Marcus is a masculine given name of Latin origin. It comes from the Roman family name Marcus, which was derived from the Latin word "marcus" meaning "dedicated to Mars," the Roman god of war. The name Marcus was quite popular among ancient Romans and it has been used as a given name ever since.
The name Marcus has been borne by several notable historical figures. One of the most famous was Marcus Aurelius, a Roman emperor from 161 to 180 AD. He was known for his philosophical writings, particularly "Meditations," which is still widely read today. Another notable figure was Marcus Porcius Cato Uticensis, more commonly known as Cato the Younger, who was a prominent politician and orator during the late Roman Republic.
In literature, Marcus is also the name of several characters in works by Shakespeare, including Marcus Andronicus in "Titus Andronicus" and Marcus Brutus in "Julius Caesar." The name has also been used in numerous other books, films, and television shows throughout history.
Today, Marcus remains a popular given name in many English-speaking countries, as well as in Germany, Sweden, and Denmark. It is often associated with qualities such as strength, courage, and wisdom, although these traits are not necessarily linked to the name itself but rather to historical figures who bore it. Ultimately, Marcus is a classic and timeless name with a rich history that spans centuries and cultures.
Marcus is a classic name that has been given to babies in the United States for over a century. According to the statistical data provided, there were 47 births with the name Marcus in 1880, and this number fluctuated greatly over the following decades.
From 1880 to 1920, the annual births with the name Marcus ranged from as low as 23 (in 1887) to as high as 321 (in 1920). During these years, there were several periods where the number of births with the name Marcus was relatively stable. For example, between 1905 and 1912, the number of births fluctuated between 42 and 64.
However, starting in the 1920s, there was a significant increase in the popularity of the name Marcus. From 1920 to 1970, the annual births with the name Marcus ranged from as low as 353 (in 1921) to as high as 4315 (in 1970). This period saw a steady increase in the number of babies named Marcus.
The peak popularity of the name Marcus occurred between 1967 and 1970, during which time over 1500 births with the name were recorded each year. However, after reaching its peak, the popularity of the name Marcus began to decline once again.
From 1971 to present day (2023), the annual births with the name Marcus ranged from as low as 1477 (in 2022) to as high as 4408 (in 1971). Although the popularity of the name Marcus has decreased significantly since its peak in the late 1960s and early 1970s, it remains a popular choice for parents today.
In conclusion, over the past century and a half, the name Marcus has seen periods of stability, significant increase in popularity, and decline. Despite these fluctuations, Marcus continues to be a beloved name among American parents.