Arthur is a name of Anglo-Saxon origin that means "noble" or "bear". It is derived from the Old English elements "æðel" which means noble and "þurh" which means bear. The name Arthur has been popular throughout history, with many notable figures bearing this name.
The most famous Arthur was King Arthur of Camelot, a legendary British king who according to medieval histories and romances, led the Knights of the Round Table in the 5th or 6th century. The story of King Arthur and his knights has been retold numerous times throughout history, making Arthur a well-known name associated with bravery, chivalry, and leadership.
The name Arthur was also borne by several English monarchs, including King Arthur I who ruled in the late 5th or early 6th century, and King Arthur II who ruled in the mid-9th century. Additionally, the name has been used by several other notable figures throughout history, such as Arthur Conan Doyle, the creator of Sherlock Holmes, and Arthur Miller, the renowned playwright.
Today, Arthur remains a popular given name for boys, often associated with qualities of nobility, strength, and leadership due to its historical significance. It is also sometimes used as a surname.
The name Arthur has seen a varied level of popularity over the years in the United States. In the early to mid-20th century, it experienced several peaks and valleys in terms of newborns being given this name.
Here's a breakdown by year:
* The name Arthur was chosen for 5 babies born in 1923.
* It remained equally popular the following year with another 5 newborns named Arthur in 1924.
* There was a slight increase in popularity in 1926, with 6 babies being named Arthur.
* The name gained further traction in 1928, with 7 newborns receiving the name Arthur.
* After a decade-long decline, Arthur's popularity resurged in 1937 and 1938, with 5 and 6 births respectively.
* It peaked again in 1940, with another 7 babies named Arthur.
* Finally, in 1946, the name Arthur was given to 6 newborns.
In total, over these eight years (1923-1946), there were 47 births of children named Arthur in the United States.