Samora is a unique and uncommon name of African origin, specifically from the Makua language spoken in Mozambique. It is derived from the word "samora," which means "lizard." In some interpretations, Samora also signifies strength, endurance, and perseverance.
The name Samora gained significant historical importance when it was borne by Samora Machel, a prominent Mozambican revolutionary and politician who served as the first President of Mozambique after its independence from Portugal in 1975. Born into a peasant family, Machel joined the liberation movement FRELIMO (Front for the Liberation of Mozambique) and played a crucial role in leading the country's fight against colonial rule.
Despite its origin and historical significance, Samora is not traditionally celebrated as a Christian name or associated with specific saints' days. Instead, it carries the legacy of struggle, independence, and leadership in Africa. As such, parents who choose this name for their children often do so to honor the strength and resilience represented by both the name's origin and its historical figure.
In terms of popularity, Samora remains relatively rare outside of Mozambique and other African countries where the Makua language is spoken. However, it has gained some international recognition due to Samora Machel's impact on Mozambican history and politics. Overall, Samora is a unique and meaningful name with deep roots in African culture and history.
The name Samora has experienced varied popularity over the past few decades in the United States. In the late 1970s and early 1980s, it was a relatively rare name with only 5 births recorded each year between 1977 and 1980. However, there was a significant increase in its usage in the mid-1980s, with 7 births recorded in 1985.
The popularity of Samora fluctuated throughout the 1990s, with an average of around 5 births per year between 1992 and 1995. There was another spike in its usage in 2003, with 11 births recorded that year. This trend continued into the early 2000s, with a total of 20 births in 2004 and over 20 births per year between 2005 and 2007.
Between 2008 and 2014, the popularity of Samora decreased somewhat, with an average of around 16 births per year. However, there was another increase in its usage starting from 2015, with over 20 births recorded each year until 2020.
In recent years, Samora has gained significant popularity, with a total of 42 births recorded both in 2021 and 2022. This trend has continued into 2023, with 38 births recorded so far this year. Overall, since 1977, there have been a total of 557 births with the name Samora in the United States.