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Last Name Bearden

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What is the origin of the last name Bearden?

The last name "Bearden" has its origins in Scotland. It is an anglicized version of the Gaelic name "Mac a' Bhiadhtuich," which translates to "son of the beer drinker" or "son of the victualler." Over time, the spelling phonetically changed to "Mac-a-Bhairdne" and further evolved to "Bearden." The Bearden surname can be traced back to the western regions of Scotland, such as Argyllshire and the Highlands.
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The meaning and origin of the last name Bearden

The surname Bearden has its origins in Scotland, and it is derived from the Old English word "beorg" which means "hill" or "mountain." It is a topographic surname that was originally used to describe someone who lived near or on a hill. The name can also be traced back to the Gaelic word "beàrdain," which means "a gillie or servant." The Bearden surname was likely given to individuals who worked as servants or attendants to the upper classes in the Scottish highlands. Over time, families with the surname Bearden spread beyond Scotland, particularly to Ireland and the United States. They played a significant role in the Scottish diaspora, carrying their surname to new lands and contributing to the cultural diversity of their adopted homelands. Today, individuals with the surname Bearden can be found worldwide, with a rich historical legacy tied to their Scottish ancestry.

Geographical distribution of the last name Bearden

The surname Bearden is most commonly found in the United States, particularly in the southern regions. The name Bearden has its roots in Scotland, where it originated from the word "beardane," meaning "bear-like." This suggests that the name may have been bestowed upon individuals with a bear-like appearance or characteristics. Over time, the Bearden family migrated to America, with the majority settling in the southern states such as Texas, Georgia, Tennessee, and Alabama. These states have a historical connection to Scottish and Irish immigration, which likely contributed to the spread of the surname Bearden in these regions. Today, individuals with the last name Bearden can be found throughout the United States, but there continues to be a significant concentration in the southern states, indicating the historical migration patterns of this surname.

Variants and spellings of the last name Bearden

The last name Bearden has few variations and spellings. The most common and widely accepted version is "Bearden." However, there are a few alternate spellings that have been observed, albeit to a lesser extent. These variations include "Beardin," "Berdin," and "Berdan." While these variations exist, they are not as prevalent as the original spelling. It is worth noting that family names can change over time due to various factors, such as migration or personal preferences, which could potentially lead to additional variations. Nonetheless, the Bearden surname is predominantly known and recognized in its original form. It is a name that holds significance and represents individuals and families who bear the name with pride and a sense of identity.

Famous people with the last name Bearden

One of the most prominent figures with the last name Bearden is Romare Bearden (1911-1988), an African-American artist and writer known for his contributions to the 20th-century American art scene. Bearden is celebrated for his collages, which often depicted African-American life and the struggles faced by the community. His work reflected his strong political and social beliefs, and he played a significant role in promoting African-American artists during the Civil Rights Movement. As a pivotal figure in the visual arts, Bearden's works continue to inspire and captivate audiences worldwide.

In addition to Romare Bearden, there are others who have made noteworthy contributions in their respective fields. These include Dr. Ralph Bearden, a renowned cybersecurity expert and author who has worked extensively in the military and private sectors. Dr. Bearden is celebrated for his expertise in the field of national security and intelligence, making substantial contributions to the safeguarding of sensitive information.

Genealogical research on the last name Bearden

The Bearden surname is believed to have originated from the Old English word "beard," which referred to a man with a prominent or thick beard. The earliest recorded use of the Bearden surname can be traced back to the 16th century in England. Over time, the Bearden family has spread across different regions and countries, including the United States. Historical records indicate that many Bear(d)ens settled in the southern United States, particularly in states like Tennessee, Georgia, and Alabama. They were primarily of English, Scottish, and Irish descent. Throughout the centuries, the Bearden family has continually grown and diversified, with branches branching out across various professions and trades. Today, members of the Bearden family can be found across the globe, making valuable contributions in fields such as academia, business, arts, and more. Genealogical research on the Bearden name can provide individuals with a deeper understanding of their family lineage and heritage.

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NomOrigine Team
About the author :

NomOrigine Team

Passionate about genealogy, name history, and linguistics, we have been analyzing the origins of names for over 3 years. Our content is based on verified historical, etymological, and statistical data.

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