Benton is a unique and distinctive given name of American origin. It is derived from an English surname that was originally given to someone who lived near a prominent bend in a river or a bay.
The name Benton has a rich history and several notable figures have borne this name. The most famous bearer of the name is perhaps Thomas Hart Benton, who served as a Senator from Missouri from 1821 to 1851. He was known for his support of states' rights and his opposition to the expansion of slavery.
Another notable figure with the name Benton is William S. Benton, who was a newspaper publisher, diplomat, and politician. He served as the United States Ambassador to China from 1946 to 1950 and later became the publisher of the Encyclopedia Britannica.
In literature, the name Benton has been used by several authors, most notably by Truman Capote in his novella "Breakfast at Tiffany's," where one of the main characters is named José Benton.
Today, Benton remains a relatively uncommon given name, but it continues to be associated with strength, determination, and independence, much like its historical figures. It is also often associated with nature and the outdoors due to its connection to bodies of water.
Overall, Benton is a distinctive and memorable name that carries a rich history and several notable bearers. Whether you're looking for a unique name for your child or simply interested in learning more about this fascinating name, Benton is certainly one worth considering.
The name Benton experienced a notable increase in popularity over time, with a significant jump occurring around the late 1980s to early 1990s. In the early years (1880-1940), the number of annual births ranged from single digits to a maximum of 77 births in 1916 and 1917. However, starting from the late 1980s, there was a consistent rise in popularity, with over 70 births per year occurring every year since 1985. The peak occurred in 2010 with 165 births, followed by a high of 240 births in 2012 and 277 births in 2016. In recent years (2017-2023), the popularity has stabilized around 150-200 births per year. Overall, since 1880, there have been a total of 10,159 births with the name Benton.