James is a popular masculine given name of English origin. It is derived from the Middle English form of the Latin name Jacobus, which was itself a derivative of the Hebrew name Ya'aqov or Jakob. The name Ya'aqov is believed to have been borne by the biblical patriarch Jacob, who was said to have wrestled with an angel and received the name Israel as a result.
The meaning of the name James has evolved over time. In its earliest form, it likely meant "supplanter" or "held by the heel," referring to the biblical story in which Jacob is born grasping his twin brother Esau's heel. However, in medieval times, the name was often interpreted as meaning "seeker" or "one who follows," reflecting the idea of pursuing a spiritual path.
The popularity of the name James can be traced back to early Christian times. Saint James the Greater, one of Jesus Christ's twelve apostles and the brother of John the Apostle, was particularly venerated in Spain. He is believed to have been the first apostle to be martyred, and his remains are said to rest in Compostela, a city in northwest Spain that became an important pilgrimage destination during the Middle Ages.
The name James has been worn by several notable figures throughout history. King James I of England, also known as James VI of Scotland, was the first monarch of the Stuart dynasty and played a significant role in the union of England and Scotland. James I of Aragon, who ruled from 1208 to 1276, is credited with unifying the various kingdoms of Spain under his rule. In literature, James Fenimore Cooper wrote several influential novels set in the American frontier, including "The Last of the Mohicans." More recently, James Dean became a symbol of teenage rebellion and coolness after starring in films such as "Rebel Without a Cause" and "East of Eden."
Today, James remains a popular choice for parents naming their sons. It has consistently ranked among the top 100 most popular boy names in the United States since record-keeping began in the early 20th century. Its enduring appeal may be due in part to its classic sound and its association with such illustrious figures throughout history.
In conclusion, James is a name of ancient origins that has evolved significantly over time. While it was originally derived from the Hebrew name Ya'aqov, it has come to be associated with various interpretations and cultural meanings. Its popularity can be attributed in part to its biblical connections, as well as its having been borne by numerous notable figures throughout history. Today, James remains a beloved and widely-used masculine given name around the world.
The name Jame experienced significant popularity spikes in the early to mid-20th century, with a peak of 87 births in 1957. However, it has become increasingly less common since then, with only 5 births recorded in each of the past three years (2016, 2017, and 2022). Over the entire period from 1903 to 2022, there were a total of 3424 births registered with the name Jame.