Joshua is a name of Hebrew origin, meaning "God is salvation." It has been a popular choice among parents for centuries due to its biblical association with the hero and leader Joshua from the Book of Joshua in the Old Testament. This name has been favored by people across different cultures and backgrounds, making it a truly international name.
Joshua was quite common during the Middle Ages but fell out of favor in subsequent centuries until the mid-20th century when it experienced a resurgence in popularity. Today, it ranks among the top 100 names for boys in several countries, including the United States, Canada, and Australia.
The name Joshua has been carried by notable figures throughout history. One prominent example is Joshua Norton, a San Francisco resident who declared himself Emperor of the United States and Protector of Mexico in the mid-19th century. Despite his unconventional claim to power, Norton was widely respected during his lifetime and became something of an icon for the city.
In popular culture, Joshua has been used as a character name numerous times. Notable examples include Joshua "Josh" Lyman from the American political drama series The West Wing, Josh Baskin from the classic film Big, and Joshua "J" Hamilton from the teen drama series One Tree Hill. These portrayals have helped to further popularize the name in recent decades.
Overall, Joshua is a strong and distinctive name with deep historical roots that continues to appeal to parents today due to its biblical significance, international popularity, and rich cultural heritage.
Joshua was born five times in the year 1986.