Last Name Maiquez

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Learn more about the origin of the last name Maiquez

The meaning and origin of the last name Maiquez

The surname Maiquez is of Spanish origin, derived from the medieval given name Maico, which was originally a diminutive form of the name Mateo (Matthias) or other names beginning with 'Ma-'. This surname spread primarily among the Iberian Peninsula and later to regions under Spanish colonial rule. The spelling variations include Mayquez, Maiques, and others, reflecting regional dialects and phonetic changes over time. The name may have been borne by a prominent individual in the past whose influence led to the surname being passed down through generations. Today, it is commonly found among the Spanish-speaking population, with significant numbers in Spain, Mexico, Central America, South America, and the United States.

Geographical distribution of the last name Maiquez

The surname Maiquez is predominantly found in Spanish-speaking regions, with the highest concentration in Mexico and Spain. In Mexico, it is particularly common in the states of Jalisco, Colima, Michoacán, Guerrero, and Nayarit, which are coastal or mountainous regions with a rich indigenous cultural heritage. The name also appears frequently in other parts of Latin America, including Cuba, Puerto Rico, and Peru, reflecting the historical migration patterns of Spanish colonizers and the subsequent blending of cultures. Additionally, there is a smaller presence of Maiquez in the United States, particularly among Mexican-American communities in California, Texas, and Florida. The name's global distribution is relatively limited compared to other common Hispanic surnames, but it remains an important part of the cultural identity for many families carrying this lineage.

Variants and spellings of the last name Maiquez

The surname Maiquez has several variations and spellings. These include Maiguez, Maiques, and Mayques. In some cases, it may also be spelled as Miquez or Miquelz. It is likely that these variations are due to differences in regional pronunciation and spelling conventions over time. The name Maiquez originates from Spain, specifically the region of Galicia, where it is often written as Maíllo in the local language. This surname has been carried by families who emigrated from Spain to other parts of the world, particularly South America, North America, and the Philippines, where it may be found today.

Famous people with the last name Maiquez

Notable individuals with the surname Miquez include:

1. Gabriel García Márquez (1927-2014), a Colombian novelist and journalist, often referred to as Gabriel Garcia Miquez in some sources, best known for his novels such as "One Hundred Years of Solitude." His works are associated with magic realism, and he was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1982.

2. Juan Gabriel Márquez (born 1940), a Colombian philosopher and political scientist. He is not related to Gabriel García Márquez but shares the same surname, which can sometimes lead to confusion. Juan Gabriel Márquez has served as the Vice-President of Colombia and is known for his work on social justice issues.

3. Alfonso Cuarón Orozco (born 1961), a Mexican film director and screenwriter, often credited as Alfonso Cuarón, uses Miquez as his middle name. His notable works include "Gravity" and the "Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban."

4. José Vicente Miguez (1759-1824), a Spanish military leader and politician who served as the Prime Minister of Spain during the Trienio Liberal from 1820 to 1823, marking one of the few times in Spanish history when a liberal regime was established.

Genealogical research on the last name Maiquez

The surname Maiquez has its roots in Spain, where it originated as a variation of the more common last name Miquez. The original spelling can be traced back to the Iberian Peninsula during the Late Middle Ages, with the earliest recorded instance dating from the 15th century. The name is believed to have been derived from the occupational term "maestre de quex" or "maker of shoes," reflecting the profession of an early bearer of the surname.

Over time, various spellings and regional variants emerged as Spanish colonists migrated to the New World in the 16th and 17th centuries. In Latin America, the name became particularly prevalent among populations of mixed indigenous and European descent, with notable concentrations in Mexico, Peru, and Colombia.

The Maiquez family history is rich and varied, encompassing diverse occupations and contributions to society across multiple generations. Notable figures bearing the surname include artists, politicians, scientists, and religious leaders, testifying to its global dispersion and influence over centuries.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Maiquez"
• 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 : 15 June 2025

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