Reuben is a Hebrew name that originates from the Bible. In the Old Testament, Reuben was the firstborn son of Jacob and Leah. The name means "behold, a son" in Hebrew.
Throughout history, the name Reuben has been associated with several significant figures. For example, in the Old Testament, Reuben was one of the twelve tribes of Israel named after him. Additionally, there have been numerous historical figures named Reuben, including Reuben James Cole, an American politician who served as a Congressman from Missouri.
Today, Reuben is still a popular name worldwide, especially among Jewish families. It is often given to boys and can also be used as a surname. Despite its biblical origins, the name has a modern and sophisticated sound that appeals to many parents. Overall, Reuben is a strong and meaningful name with a rich history and cultural significance.
The name Reuben has been given to babies born in the United States for over a century, with varying popularity over time. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the number of births per year ranged from a low of 54 in 1887 to a high of 372 in 1914. The name's peak popularity occurred between 1912 and 1924, with over 360 births each year during this period.
After the 1920s, the number of babies named Reuben began to decline steadily. By the 1950s, fewer than 200 babies were given the name each year. However, starting in the mid-1970s, there was a resurgence in popularity for the name Reuben. Between 1976 and 1986, over 240 births occurred each year.
In recent years, the popularity of the name Reuben has continued to fluctuate. After reaching a low of 199 births in 2010, the number of babies named Reuben began to rise again. In 2022 and 2023, over 300 babies were given this name, marking a significant increase in popularity compared to recent years.
Overall, since 1880, there have been a total of 31,556 births with the name Reuben in the United States. Despite periods of decline, the name has maintained a consistent presence over time and continues to be given to babies today.