Reuben is a Hebrew name that originates from the Bible. In the Old Testament, Reuben was the firstborn son of Jacob and Leah. The name means "behold, a son" in Hebrew.
Throughout history, the name Reuben has been associated with several significant figures. For example, in the Old Testament, Reuben was one of the twelve tribes of Israel named after him. Additionally, there have been numerous historical figures named Reuben, including Reuben James Cole, an American politician who served as a Congressman from Missouri.
Today, Reuben is still a popular name worldwide, especially among Jewish families. It is often given to boys and can also be used as a surname. Despite its biblical origins, the name has a modern and sophisticated sound that appeals to many parents. Overall, Reuben is a strong and meaningful name with a rich history and cultural significance.
The name Reuben experienced a significant rise and fall in popularity over the course of its recorded history. In the late 19th century, there was considerable fluctuation in births annually, ranging from a low of 54 in 1887 to a high of 220 in 1912. However, starting around 1913, we see a dramatic increase in the number of babies named Reuben, with birth counts reaching over 400 for several years during World War I.
The name continued to be relatively popular throughout much of the 20th century, with births fluctuating between roughly 200 and 300 annually. However, since around the year 2000, there has been a notable decline in the popularity of the name Reuben, with birth counts consistently below 250 each year and sometimes dipping as low as 199 in 2010.
Overall, while Reuben was once a popular choice for parents, its usage has declined significantly in recent years.