Lee is a name of Korean origin and means "righteousness" or "principles." It is derived from the Korean family name 이 (Lee), which is one of the most common surnames in South Korea. According to historical records, the Lee clan traces its lineage back to the ancient Goguryeo kingdom that existed during the Three Kingdoms period in Korea.
The name Lee has a rich history and cultural significance in Korea. It is often associated with prestigious families and notable figures in Korean politics, literature, and arts. Some famous individuals who bear the surname Lee include Lee Kun-hee, former chairman of Samsung Group; Lee Myung-bak, former president of South Korea; and Lee Young-ae, a renowned actress known for her role in the TV drama "Dae Jang Geum."
In Western cultures, Lee is also recognized as an English given name. Although its origin remains Korean, it has been adopted by many families who appreciate its simple yet meaningful sound and spelling. In some cases, parents choose Lee as a middle name to honor their Asian heritage or as a nod to the growing diversity in global naming trends.
Overall, the name Lee carries both historical and contemporary relevance, making it an appealing choice for parents looking for a strong, meaningful name with international appeal.
The given statistics track the annual number of births with the name "Lee" in the United States from 1880 to 2023. Over this period, there have been significant fluctuations in the popularity of this name.
From 1880 to around 1946, the number of babies named Lee at birth fluctuated between approximately 350 and 400 births per year, with a few exceptions where it surpassed 600 births. The highest number during this period was in 1912, with 1,030 births.
Starting from around 1947, there was a notable increase in the popularity of the name Lee, reaching its peak in 1950 with 3,610 births. This high level of popularity continued until approximately 1965, after which it began to decline steadily.
By 1980, the number of babies named Lee at birth had decreased significantly, with around 2,200 births recorded that year. This downward trend persisted throughout the late 20th century and into the early 21st century. In recent years, the popularity of the name Lee has stabilized at around 350 to 400 births per year.
In summary, while the name Lee was quite popular in the United States during the mid-20th century, its popularity has since declined significantly. Despite this decrease, the name still sees a consistent number of births each year. As of 2023, the total number of babies named Lee at birth in the United States is 232,875.