Alonzo is a traditional male given name of Latin origin, derived from the Roman family name Albanus. The name Albanus itself comes from the Latin word 'albus', meaning white, and was likely associated with the city of Alba in Italy. Over time, the name has evolved into various forms such as Alban, Albany, Albion, and eventually Alonzo.
Alonzo first gained prominence during the Middle Ages in Europe, often being used among nobility due to its Latin roots and association with high social status. It was particularly popular among Spanish royalty and nobility, with several historical figures bearing this name, including Alonzo XI of Castile and Alonzo V of Aragon.
The use of Alonzo has continued to the present day, though it is now more commonly found in English-speaking countries such as the United States, where it has been used steadily since the mid-19th century. It is often given as a middle name or used within families that have a historical connection to Spanish or Latin culture.
Notable individuals named Alonzo include American baseball player Alonzo "Jake" Beckley, known for his exceptional defensive skills and long career in the major leagues, and Puerto Rican-American poet Alonzo 'Zo' Tio, whose work often explores themes of identity, family, and cultural heritage.
"The name Alonzo saw peaks in popularity during the late 1950s to early 1960s with notable years being 1955 (8 births), 1961 (8 births), and 1965 (7 births). It maintained a consistent level of usage throughout most decades, though it declined slightly in recent years."