Esteban is a name of Spanish origin, derived from the Latin name "Stephen," which means "crown" or "garland." It is believed to have been first used as a given name in Spain during the Middle Ages.
The name Esteban gained popularity in Spain and its colonies due to the influence of Saint Stephen, who was one of the earliest Christian martyrs. According to tradition, Saint Stephen was stoned to death for his faith, and his martyrdom is commemorated on December 26th in the Roman Catholic Church. As a result, many Spanish-speaking countries have traditionally named their children Esteban in honor of the saint.
Over time, Esteban has become a popular name throughout Latin America and among Spanish-speaking communities around the world. It has also gained recognition as an international name, with variations such as "Esteban" used in other languages and cultures.
In literature and history, there are several notable figures named Esteban, including Esteban Salas, a 19th-century Puerto Rican musician and composer, and Esteban Echeverría, an Argentine writer considered one of the founding fathers of Argentine literature. These individuals have contributed to the legacy and reputation of the name Esteban throughout history.
Today, Esteban remains a beloved name among Spanish-speaking communities, and it is often used as both a given name and a surname. It continues to be associated with strength, courage, and faith, reflecting its historical origins and the legacy of Saint Stephen.
The name Esteban experienced a significant rise in popularity over time, with birth rates increasing from single digits in the late 19th century to peaks of over 1000 births per year by the mid-2000s. The highest number of births recorded was 1024 in 2005. However, there has been a decline since then, with the most recent data showing 698 births in 2023. Overall, there have been 34,222 births with the name Esteban between 1891 and 2023.