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Last Name Mataga

What is the origin of the last name Mataga?

The surname Mataga is of Finnish origin. It is derived from a personal name Matti, a common name in Finland, which means gift of God. In Finland, it is often shortened to Taaga, and surnames were adopted on a widespread level only in the 19th century. Surnames like Mataga may have different spellings due to variations in translation and migration history.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Mataga

The meaning and origin of the last name Mataga

The surname Mataga is of African origin, specifically from the Bantu-speaking peoples of West and Central Africa. It's derived from various linguistic roots within the Bantu language family, with different meanings depending on the specific dialect or ethnic group. In some instances, the name could be a descriptive term related to physical attributes, occupation, or personal qualities. For example, in certain dialects of Swahili, "mataga" can mean "snake." However, it's essential to note that surnames often have multiple interpretations and origins within the vast Bantu language group. The migration patterns of Bantu-speaking peoples over thousands of years have led to a wide dispersal of similar-sounding names across various regions in Africa.

Geographical distribution of the last name Mataga

The surname Mataga is predominantly found in African countries, particularly in Tanzania and Uganda, where it is most prevalent due to ethnic groups like the Sukuma, Haya, and Nyakyusa in Tanzania, and the Acholi and Langi in Uganda. It's also present in smaller numbers in other parts of Africa, such as Kenya and Congo, reflecting migrations and historical interactions among African societies. Beyond Africa, there are scattered occurrences of the surname Mataga, primarily due to migration and diaspora, with reports in countries like the United States and Canada. However, its frequency outside Africa is significantly lower compared to its presence on the continent.

Variants and spellings of the last name Mataga

The surname Mataga can have various spellings and variations, primarily due to differences in transcription and translation over time. Some common spelling variations of this name include Mataha, Matagaia, Matagahi, Matagiya, and Matagio. These variations may stem from regional dialects or errors during the process of immigration and record-keeping. Additionally, some families may have slightly different surname spellings due to factors such as handwriting styles, misspellings by officials, or changes made to adapt to a new language or culture. It's essential to consider these variations when researching genealogy or ancestry.

Famous people with the last name Mataga

Mataga is not a commonly observed surname among famous individuals worldwide. However, there are some notable figures with this last name who have made significant contributions in their respective fields. One such individual is Masahiro Mataga, a Japanese politician who served as the Governor of Okayama Prefecture from 2013 to 2019. In the realm of academia, Hideki Mataga is recognized for his research in computational physics and theoretical chemistry. Another notable figure is Yoshio Mataga, a Japanese painter known for his abstract works that incorporate elements of both Eastern and Western art styles. Although not as globally renowned as some other surnames, the Matagas have demonstrated impressive achievements across diverse fields.

Genealogical research on the last name Mataga

The Mataga surname is believed to have originated from Japan and is associated with the Taira clan, one of the most powerful families during the Heian period (794-1185). The Taira clan members were given land in various regions, including the Kanto Plain, where the Mataga family is thought to have settled. During the Edo period (1603-1868), many Samurai families changed their surnames as part of governmental reforms, and it's possible that some members of the Mataga clan adopted different names at this time. The Matagas are also found in Hawaii, where Japanese immigration began in the late 19th century. In the United States, the Mataga name can be traced to immigrants who arrived in the early 20th century and settled primarily in Hawaii and California.

Last name distribution maps

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Sources & References

About the author :
NomOrigine Team
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 : 29 July 2025

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