Christopher is a name of English origin that has been popular throughout history. It is derived from the Greek name Christophoros, which means "bearing Christ" or "holder of Christ". The name was given to individuals who were believed to bear the mark of Christ in their lives.
The earliest known reference to the name Christopher is found in a 9th century manuscript that describes Saint Christopher as one of the fourteen Holy Helpers. According to legend, Saint Christopher was a powerful man who carried people across a dangerous river. One day, he carried a child across the river who turned out to be Christ, despite appearing to be just an ordinary child. From then on, Christopher became known as "the one who carries Christ".
Throughout the Middle Ages and Renaissance periods, the name Christopher was often given to children born around Christmas time due to its association with Saint Christopher's Day, which falls on July 25th. However, it wasn't until the 18th century that the name began to gain widespread popularity among non-Catholic families in England.
Today, Christopher is considered a classic and timeless name that has stood the test of time. It remains popular around the world and continues to be associated with strength, faith, and devotion. Despite its religious origins, the name Christopher can be given to individuals of any religion or background who wish to pay homage to its rich history and meaning.
Christopher has been a popular name in the United States since at least the early 1970s, with over 170 babies named Christopher born each year on average between 1973 and 1992. The name's popularity peaked during this period in 1986, when it was given to a total of 20 newborn boys.
Throughout these two decades, the number of babies named Christopher varied from year to year. For instance, in 1973, only five boys were named Christopher at birth, while in the following years, the number increased significantly, reaching double digits by 1974 with eleven births. The trend continued with a dip in 1980 (six births) followed by an increase to twelve births each year from 1981 to 1983.
After peaking at twenty births in 1986, the popularity of the name Christopher seemed to decline slightly, with thirteen births recorded both in 1987 and 1988. By the early 1990s, the number of babies named Christopher fell below ten per year, with seven births each in 1991 and 1992.
Despite this decrease in popularity towards the end of this period, it is clear that Christopher was a beloved name for boys born in the United States between 1973 and 1992. The consistent number of babies named Christopher year after year reflects the enduring appeal of this classic name.