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Black History Names

  1. Cab

    • Origin:

      English diminutive of Cabell

    • Description:

      Even for lovers of Cab (born, yes, Cabell) Calloway's music, the connection to 'Taxi!' is too strong.
  2. Hartman

    • Origin:

      German

    • Meaning:

      "hard, strong man"

    • Description:

      A viable choice that may be growing on your family tree. Hartman Turnbow was a part of Mississippi's "First Fourteen", the first group of African Americans who attempted to register to vote in the state.
  3. Gillespie

    • Origin:

      Scottish

    • Meaning:

      "bishop's servant"

    • Description:

      Sometimes heard as a first name in Scotland, particularly among the Campbell clan.
  4. Truth

    • Origin:

      English word name

    • Meaning:

      "truth"

    • Description:

      With the first name True receiving a Kardashian dose of popularity for girls, Truth is gaining in visibility too. Though its still more popular for boys two to one, the truth is that the name works equally well for both genders -- but may inspire a lot of puns.
  5. Blanche

    • Origin:

      French

    • Meaning:

      "white"

    • Description:

      While typically used for girls, former US senator Blanche Bruce — the first ever Black man to preside over the senate — makes this name feel useable (and meaningful) on a boy as well.
  6. Medgar

    • Origin:

      German

    • Meaning:

      "lucky spear"

    • Description:

      Medgar Evers was a civil rights activist and the NAACP's first field secretary in Mississippi in 1943. Both his bold first name or softer surname would make meaningful choices.
  7. Edmonia

    • Description:

      Edmonia is a feminine name of uncertain etymology, though it may be a feminine form of Edmund, a Germanic name combining elements meaning 'wealth' or 'fortune' and 'protection.' The name gained some prominence in the 19th century, notably through American sculptor Edmonia Lewis (1844-1907), who achieved international recognition for her work. Despite this historical figure, Edmonia has remained relatively uncommon in usage throughout recorded naming statistics. The name saw modest usage in the United States during the late 19th and early 20th centuries but declined in popularity thereafter. While uncommon today, Edmonia carries a certain vintage charm and distinguished sound that appeals to parents seeking a rare name with historical connections. Its pronunciation typically places emphasis on the second syllable: ed-MOH-nee-ah.
  8. Otelia

    • Description:

      Otelia is a feminine name with Germanic roots, derived from the elements 'aud' meaning 'wealth, fortune' or 'prosperity.' It's a variant of Odelia or Ottilia, names that have been used since medieval times. Saint Ottilia was an 8th-century abbess and patron saint of Alsace, giving the name religious significance. Otelia saw modest popularity in the United States in the late 19th and early 20th centuries but has since become uncommon. The name carries an old-world charm with its vintage sound, evoking images of grace and elegance. With the return of interest in vintage names, Otelia offers an uncommon alternative to more popular 'O' names like Olivia or Ophelia, while providing the friendly nicknames Otel, Telia, or Lia.

  9. Thomy

    • Description:

      Thomy is a masculine name that serves as a diminutive or alternative spelling of Thomas. With roots in Aramaic, the original name Thomas means 'twin.' This variant spelling maintains the familiar sound of the classic name while offering a distinctive written form. The 'y' ending gives it a playful, approachable quality compared to the more formal Thomas. Thomy is more commonly found in German-speaking countries and parts of Europe than in English-speaking regions, where Tommy is the more traditional nickname. The name carries the historical significance and religious associations of Thomas while presenting a slightly more contemporary feel. Despite its nickname quality, some parents choose Thomy as a given name in its own right.

  10. Dawoud

    • Origin:

      Variation of Dawud, Arabic

    • Meaning:

      "beloved"

    • Description:

      American photographer Dawoud Bey has increased interest in his uncommon spelling of the name Dawud — the Arabic variation of David.
  11. Rafer

    • Description:

      Rafer is a masculine name with multiple potential origins. It may derive from the Old Norse 'Ragnfriðr' meaning 'peace-ruler,' or it could be related to the Old English 'rǣd' meaning 'counsel' combined with 'faran' meaning 'to journey.' Some consider it a variation of the name Ralph (derived from 'Radulf,' meaning 'counsel wolf'). The name gained some recognition through American Olympic gold medalist Rafer Johnson in the mid-20th century. Despite this notable bearer, Rafer has remained uncommon in usage, never breaking into top naming charts. The name has a strong, concise sound that combines traditional roots with a distinctive quality. Its rarity makes it appealing to parents seeking a masculine name that sounds established yet isn't commonly heard.
  12. Revels

    • Origin:

      English word name

    • Meaning:

      "parties"

    • Description:

      Hiram Revels, the first ever African American senator in the United States, in a lovely namesake to accompany this cool mix of a word-name and surname.