Last Name Quigley

The surname "Quigley" is of Irish origin. It derives from the Gaelic surname Ó Coigligh, meaning "descendant of Coigleach." The personal name "Coigleach" itself may have different interpretations, such as "unkempt" or "thorny." The Quigley surname has a long history in Ireland and is primarily associated with County Donegal in Ulster. Over time, many Quigley families migrated to other parts of Ireland and the world, particularly to North America during the Great Famine in the 19th century.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Quigley

The meaning and origin of the last name Quigley

The surname Quigley originated in Ireland and has its roots in the Gaelic language. It is derived from the Gaelic name "Ó Coigligh," which translates to "descendant of Coigleach." The personal name Coigleach comes from the word "coigeal," meaning "untidy" or "disorderly." The Quigley surname is predominantly found in the province of Ulster and, to a lesser extent, Connacht in Ireland. The origins of the Quigley name can be traced back centuries, with records of its existence dating as far as the 13th century in Ireland. The Quigley clan held prominence in county Donegal, particularly around the Inishowen Peninsula. Like many surnames in Ireland, variations of Quigley emerged over time, including Quigg, Cogley, MacQuigg, and MacQuigley. Today, descendants of the Quigley surname can be found worldwide, with many individuals of Irish ancestry proudly carrying on the name. The meaning behind the name highlights its connection to the notion of untidiness or disorderliness, drawing a subtle link to the characteristics and traits attributed to the original Coigleach ancestors.

Geographical distribution of the last name Quigley

The last name Quigley has a wide geographical distribution, with significant concentrations in several countries. In Ireland, where the name originates, Quigley is relatively common, particularly in the northern counties of Donegal, Tyrone, and Derry. Due to the historical emigration patterns from Ireland, Quigley can also be found in large numbers in the United States, particularly in states like Pennsylvania, New York, and Massachusetts, which experienced significant Irish immigration during the 19th and early 20th centuries. Additionally, Quigley is present in notable numbers in Canada, Australia, and the United Kingdom, where Irish migration also played a role in spreading the name. Furthermore, Quigley may be found in smaller populations in other English-speaking countries or regions, such as New Zealand and South Africa, where individuals with Irish ancestry have settled over the years. Overall, the geographical distribution of the last name Quigley reflects the dispersion of Irish communities throughout the world.

Variants and spellings of the last name Quigley

The last name Quigley has several variations and spellings that have emerged throughout history. These variants include Quigly, Quiggley, Quiglee, Quiggly, and Quagleigh. Each spelling variation adds a unique flavor to the original name, perhaps influenced by regional accents or dialects. The surname Quigley originates from Gaelic-Irish roots, and its various spellings can be found in Ireland, Scotland, England, and other English-speaking countries. These different versions may have resulted from anglicization or transliteration processes, where the original pronunciation and spelling were adapted to suit different linguistic conventions. Regardless of the spelling or variation, the name Quigley carries its own charm and character. It is a name that stands as a testament to one's heritage and ancestry, while also remaining flexible enough to suit individual preferences.

Famous people with the last name Quigley

One of the famous people with the last name Quigley is Bill Quigley, an American lawyer and law professor known for his activism and dedication to social justice. He has worked tirelessly as a legal advocate for marginalized communities, particularly in New Orleans, where he fought for the rights of workers, the poor, and the oppressed. Quigley has been involved in numerous civil rights cases and legal battles, including those surrounding Hurricane Katrina and the criminal justice system. He is known for his expertise in constitutional law, public interest litigation, and the intersections of poverty and race. Quigley's commitment to social justice and his tireless work have made him a respected figure in the legal community and an inspiration to many who strive for a fair and just society.

Genealogical research on the last name Quigley

The surname Quigley is of Irish origin and can be traced back to ancient Gaelic roots. The name is derived from the Gaelic "Mac Quigley" or "Mac Daibheid" meaning "son of Quigley" or "son of David." Quigley itself is a variant spelling of the first name O'Coigligh, which means "untidy" or "unkempt" in Gaelic. The O'Coigligh clan was historically concentrated in County Donegal in the northern part of Ireland. Over time, the surname migrated to other parts of Ireland and even to different regions of the world through migration during the Irish diaspora. Today, individuals with the last name Quigley can be found in various countries, particularly in the United States, Canada, and Australia, where Irish immigrants settled and established communities. Genealogical research on the Quigley name reveals a diverse and widespread family history tied to Ireland's rich cultural heritage.

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