Sullivan is a name of Irish origin, derived from the Gaelic name O'Sullivan. The name means "dark-eyed one" and is believed to have been given to individuals with dark eyes or black hair. The surname Sullivan was borne by a prominent family in Ireland who were descended from the O'Sullivans of Duhallow in County Cork.
The Sullivan clan played an important role in Irish history, particularly during the Elizabethan period when they fought against English rule. The most famous member of the Sullivan family is probably Murrough O'Brien, the 1st Earl of Inchiquin, who was known for his military prowess and his support of the Catholic cause.
The name Sullivan has been popular in Ireland and other parts of the world for centuries. It became particularly common in North America during the late 19th and early 20th centuries when many Irish immigrants settled there. Today, Sullivan is still a widely used surname and given name, with people bearing this name found all over the globe.
In literature and popular culture, some notable figures named Sullivan include the American writer Edna Ferber, who won a Pulitzer Prize for her novel "Show Boat," and the Australian actor Chris Hemsworth, who is best known for playing Thor in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. The name Sullivan has also been used in numerous films, television shows, and songs throughout history.
Overall, the name Sullivan carries a rich history and cultural significance that dates back centuries. Whether as a surname or given name, it remains a popular choice among families around the world today.
It appears that the name Sullivan experienced significant fluctuations in popularity over the years. While there were only a handful of births per year in the late 1800s and early 1900s, by the mid-1990s, the number of babies named Sullivan began to rise steadily. This trend continued into the 2000s and 2010s, with the most recent data showing over 900 births for each of the past three years. In total, there have been 13,529 recorded births with the name Sullivan since 1884.