Last Name Krupp

The surname Krupp is of Germanic origin. It comes from the Middle High German "kruppa" which means "hump" or "knob", likely used originally to identify someone with a physical characteristic such as a hunchback. Over time, it was adopted as a hereditary surname in various parts of Germany and regions inhabited by German settlers, such as the Rhineland and Russia (Volga Germans). Notable families bearing this name include the Krupp family of Essen, who were industrialists, munitions manufacturers, and members of the German nobility.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Krupp

The meaning and origin of the last name Krupp

The surname Krupp originates from Germany, specifically the Rhine region, and is of occupational origin. It derives from the Middle High German word "kruppa," which means "small crossbow," or "cannon." Historically, the Krupp family were known for their expertise in the production of cannons and other metalworking trades. The most famous member of the Krupp family is probably Friedrich Alfred Krupp (1857-1902), who expanded his family's steel manufacturing business into a vast empire, known as the "Krupp Armament Works." The company played a significant role in German military history during the 19th and early 20th centuries. Today, the surname Krupp is widespread among people of German descent, both within Germany and around the world.

Geographical distribution of the last name Krupp

The surname Krupp is predominantly found in Germany, particularly in regions such as Westphalia and Rhineland-Palatinate, where the Krupp steelworks were established during the Industrial Revolution by the influential Krupp family. The name has also been dispersed globally due to historical events and migration patterns. For instance, a significant number of people with the surname can be found in the United States, as many German immigrants settled there during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Additionally, pockets of Krupp families can be found in countries like Brazil, Argentina, and Australia, where Germans emigrated for economic or political reasons. Although the name is most prevalent in these areas, it has also appeared in other European countries, as well as parts of Asia and Africa, indicating a broader diaspora of the Krupp surname.

Variants and spellings of the last name Krupp

The surname Krupp has several variations and spellings across different regions and historical periods. One common variation is Kupp, which can be found predominantly in Germany, where the name originates. Another variation is Crup or Crup, which may have arisen from regional dialects or transcription errors over time. A less common spelling is Kruppe, which could indicate a plural form of the original surname. Additionally, there are variations due to migration and assimilation, such as Crupp in England or Cruup in the Netherlands. Furthermore, Kruppe can also be found among Eastern European families who emigrated from Germany, while Krupczak or Krupczynski might represent Polish or Slavic adaptations of the name. It is essential to note that these variations and spellings may not be exclusive to each region, as they can overlap due to historical factors such as migration and cultural exchange.

Famous people with the last name Krupp

The Krupp family is renowned for its significant contributions to German industry and history. Among the most prominent members are:

1. Friedrich Krupp (1787-1826), founder of Friedrich Krupp AG, a major arms manufacturer in Essen, Germany.

2. Alfred Krupp (1812-1887), son of Friedrich, expanded the family business and was responsible for producing weapons for Prussia during the Franco-Prussian War.

3. Gustav Krupp von Bohlen und Halbach (1870-1950), grandson of Alfred, rebuilt the family business after World War I and made significant innovations in steel production.

4. Arndt Krupp (born 1960), is a German industrialist who is currently the chairman of ThyssenKrupp AG, a multinational conglomerate corporation based in Essen.

These individuals have had profound impacts on German industry and military history, with their legacies still influencing modern Germany.

Genealogical research on the last name Krupp

The Krupp family is an influential German dynasty primarily known for their steel production and armament manufacturing businesses. Founded by Esson von Krupp (1602-1684), the family's industrial prominence began with Friedrich Albrecht Krupp (1787-1826) who inherited a small ironware business from his father, Gotthilf Heinrich von Krupp. The most notable member is Alfred Krupp (1812-1887), who expanded the company into an international powerhouse after the Industrial Revolution. Notable descendants include Gustav Krupp von Bohlen und Halbach (1870-1950), whose leadership spanned from 1902 to 1943, and Arminio Krupp von Bohlen und Halbach (1910-2000) who presided over the firm's restructuring following World War II. The Krupp family's industrial legacy continues with Friedrich Karl Avance Krupp (b. 1968), who serves as chairman of ThyssenKrupp AG, a multinational conglomerate company.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Krupp"
• Global distribution of the surname on Forebears.io
• Wikipedia Article

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.
Last updated : 11 June 2025

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