Last Name Resendez

The surname Resendez is a Spanish and Portuguese patronymic surname derived from the given name "Resendo," which was originally a Visigothic name. The Visigoths were a group of Germanic people who invaded the Iberian Peninsula (modern-day Spain and Portugal) in the 5th century AD, during the fall of the Western Roman Empire. Over time, through a process known as linguistic assimilation, the name Resendo evolved into various forms such as Resende, Resendes, and Resendez in Spanish, Portuguese, and some other Iberian languages. The "-ez" or "-es" ending indicates that it is a surname derived from a male given name, meaning "son of Resendo." It's important to note that surnames like Resendez were initially adopted by individuals as a way to identify themselves and their families in the absence of an efficient administrative system for record-keeping. The use of hereditary surnames became more widespread during the Middle Ages, particularly after the Christian Reconquista (reconquest) of the Iberian Peninsula, which ended with the complete expulsion or conversion of the Muslim population in 1492. The name Resendez can also be found among people of Mexican ancestry due to the Spanish colonization and influence in the Americas. The surname Resendez is now widely distributed across various countries, particularly in Spain, Portugal, Mexico, and other Spanish-speaking nations, as well as in the United States.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Resendez

The meaning and origin of the last name Resendez

The surname Resendez is of Spanish origin, derived from the given name "Resendo" or "Resendes," which has two potential roots. One theory suggests that it is derived from the Visigothic personal name "Risindus," composed of the elements "rīs" (counsel) and "indus" (industrious). Another theory proposes that it stems from the Late Latin "Resundus," meaning "repeatedly sending." Over time, the spelling has evolved through various forms such as Resende, Resendiz, and finally to Resendez. The name was predominantly found in the Iberian Peninsula, particularly in regions like Castile and Leon, where it became quite common due to the widespread use of patronymic surnames during the Middle Ages. Today, the Resendez surname is not only present in Spain but also among Hispanic communities worldwide, as a result of historical migration patterns.

Geographical distribution of the last name Resendez

The surname Resendez has its roots in Spain and is predominantly found in the region of Galicia. However, it has also been dispersed due to historical events such as the Spanish colonization of America. Today, a significant number of people with the last name Resendez can be found in Mexico, particularly in states like Jalisco, Guanajuato, and Zacatecas, which have large populations descended from the Spanish colonizers. Smaller numbers of people with this surname can also be found in other Latin American countries such as the United States, where many Mexican immigrants reside, as well as in Spain, Portugal, and some parts of South America. The distribution pattern of the last name Resendez reflects both its origins in Galicia, Spain and the historical migration patterns from Spain to the Americas.

Variants and spellings of the last name Resendez

The surname Resendez is primarily Spanish, with origins traceable to Portugal. Variations and spelling alterations may include: Resendiz, Resende, Resendo, Resendedo, Resendes, Resendez-Lopez, Resendez-Garcia, Resendez-Rodriguez, and Resendez-Gonzalez. These variations often arise due to differences in regional dialects, immigration records, or personal preference when anglicizing names. It is essential to note that the correct spelling of any surname can depend on specific family history and ancestral origin, making it crucial for individuals to trace their roots to determine the most accurate version of their last name.

Famous people with the last name Resendez

Notable individuals bearing the surname Resendéz include:

1. Maria Elena Resendéz (born 1983), an American actress and comedian, known for her roles in television series such as "Inside Amy Schumer" and "Cristela."
2. Carlos Resendéz (born 1970), a Mexican-American professional boxer who held the WBO super featherweight title from 2003 to 2004.
3. José Antonio Resendéz (1855-1906), a Mexican journalist, lawyer, and politician, considered one of the pioneers of modern journalism in Mexico.
4. Manuel Resendéz y Luna (1784-1842), a Mexican military leader during the Mexican War of Independence and later an influential politician under the leadership of Agustín de Iturbide.
5. José Guadalupe Resendéz (1906-1993), a Mexican lawyer and diplomat who served as Mexico's ambassador to the United States from 1964 to 1968.

These individuals have made significant contributions in various fields, including entertainment, sports, journalism, politics, and diplomacy, demonstrating the versatility and accomplishments of those with the Resendéz surname.

Genealogical research on the last name Resendez

The surname Resendez originates from Spain and is of Visigothic or Moorish origin. The name was originally spelled Resenda and later evolved into Resende, from which the modern form, Resendez, descends. In the Middle Ages, during the Christian Reconquista, many Spanish families, including those bearing the name Resendez, fled northward to escape the rule of the Moors, settling in regions such as Galicia and Castile. Some of these families eventually emigrated to Mexico during the colonial era, bringing the name with them. Today, the highest concentration of the Resendez family can be found in northern Mexico, particularly in states like Nuevo Leon, Coahuila, and Tamaulipas. The Resendez lineage also has a significant presence in the United States, particularly in Texas and California, due to immigration from Mexico during the 20th century.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Resendez"
• 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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