Blog Post:
Throughout the decades, there have been countless names that have risen in popularity and become synonymous with their respective eras. From the traditional names of the early 1900s to the unique and modern names of today, each decade has its own distinct trends and styles when it comes to naming our children. In this blog post, we will take a trip down memory lane and explore the top 5 names of each decade, and ultimately determine which one is the most beloved.
1910s:
1. Mary
2. Helen
3. Dorothy
4. Margaret
5. Ruth
The 1910s were a time of simplicity and tradition, reflected in the most popular names of the decade. Mary, a name of biblical origin meaning “bitter” or “wished-for child,” was the top name for girls and remained in the top 5 for the next four decades. Following closely behind were other traditional names such as Helen, Dorothy, Margaret, and Ruth. These names exude a sense of elegance and femininity, fitting for the time period.
1920s:
1. Mary
2. Dorothy
3. Helen
4. Betty
5. Margaret
The 1920s were a time of change and progress, and this was reflected in the names chosen for children. While Mary remained in the top spot, new names like Betty and Margaret rose in popularity. These names were shorter and more modern, reflecting the changing times. Dorothy and Helen also remained in the top 5, showing the enduring popularity of traditional names.
1930s:
1. Mary
2. Betty
3. Barbara
4. Shirley
5. Patricia
The 1930s saw the rise of names that were more playful and feminine. Mary remained in the top spot, but names like Barbara, Shirley, and Patricia became popular, showing a shift towards more unique and modern names. Betty, a name that was also popular in the 1920s, remained in the top 5, showing its enduring appeal.
1940s:
1. James
2. Robert
3. John
4. Mary
5. Linda
The 1940s saw a dramatic shift in the top names, with traditional names like Mary, Betty, and Helen falling out of favor for more masculine names. James, Robert, and John took the top 3 spots for boys, reflecting the influence of popular figures in the media, such as actor James Stewart and singer Bing Crosby. Mary remained in the top 5, but new name Linda rose to the 5th spot, showing the popularity of more modern and unique names.
1950s:
1. James
2. Robert
3. John
4. Michael
5. David
The 1950s continued the trend of masculine names, with James, Robert, and John remaining in the top 3 spots. However, new names like Michael and David rose in popularity, showing a shift towards biblical and traditional names. These names also had a strong association with popular figures, such as actor Michael Landon and musician David Bowie.
The Top 5 Names of Each Decade: Which One is Your Favorite?
1960s:
1. Michael
2. David
3. John
4. James
5. Robert
The 1960s saw a continuation of the trend towards biblical and traditional names, with Michael and David remaining in the top 2 spots. John and James also remained popular, with a slight shift in their rankings. New name Robert entered the top 5, reflecting the popularity of names with a strong and classic sound.
1970s:
1. Jennifer
2. Michael
3. Christopher
4. Jason
5. David
The 1970s were a time of creativity and individuality, and this was reflected in the top names of the decade. Jennifer, a name of Welsh origin meaning “white wave,” took the top spot for girls, showing a shift towards more unique and modern names. Michael remained in the top 5 for boys, but new names like Christopher, Jason, and David also rose in popularity, showing a preference for names with a strong and masculine sound.
1980s:
1. Jennifer
2. Jessica
3. Amanda
4. Michael
5. Christopher
The 1980s saw a continuation of the trend towards unique and modern names for girls, with Jennifer and Jessica taking the top 2 spots. Amanda also rose in popularity, reflecting the influence of pop culture, with the success of the movie “The Princess Bride.” Michael and Christopher remained in the top 5 for boys, but new name Matthew also rose in popularity, showing a preference for biblical names.
1990s:
1. Jessica
2. Ashley
3. Emily
4. Michael
5. Christopher
The 1990s saw a shift towards more feminine and softer-sounding names for girls, with Jessica, Ashley, and Emily taking the top 3 spots. Michael and Christopher remained in the top 5 for boys, but new name Joshua also rose in popularity, showing a preference for biblical and traditional names.
2000s:
1. Emily
2. Madison
3. Emma
4. Olivia
5. Jacob
The 2000s saw a return to more traditional and classic names, with Emily, Madison, and Emma taking the top 3 spots for girls. These names have a timeless appeal and have remained popular over the years. Olivia also rose in popularity, showing a preference for names with a sophisticated and feminine sound. For boys, biblical name Jacob took the top spot, followed by traditional names like Michael and Christopher.
Summary:
From the traditional and elegant names of the early 1900s to the modern and unique names of the 2000s, each decade has its own distinct trends when it comes to naming children. While some names have remained popular over the years, others have risen and fallen in popularity, reflecting the changing times and influences of popular figures and media. Whether you prefer traditional, modern, or unique names, there is no denying the impact that each decade has had on the naming of our children.