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Last Name Zambada

What is the origin of the last name Zambada?

The surname Zambada is of Spanish origin, specifically Spain. It is derived from the word "zambo", which was a term used to refer to people of African and indigenous origin in Latin America. It is possible that this surname was attributed to a person with ancestors of these origins.

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Learn more about the origin of the last name Zambada

The meaning and origin of the last name Zambada

The surname Zambada is of Hispanic origin and is mainly widespread in Latin America, particularly Mexico. It is probably derived from the word "zambo", which was used to describe an African and indigenous Métis person. This suggests that the first bearers of the surname Zambada were probably Métis from both origins. However, over time, the surname Zambada has been adopted by people of various backgrounds, and it is now carried by many families around the world, especially in Latin America. Its exact meaning and specificities vary according to the regions and branches of the family, but it remains an important historical and cultural heritage for those who wear it.

Geographical distribution of the last name Zambada

The surname Zambada is mainly widespread in Latin America, particularly Mexico. It is particularly common in the Sinaloa and Sonora regions, where the Zambada family is native. It is also found in other Latin American countries, such as Colombia, Venezuela and Panama. In the United States, the surname Zambada is rarer, but it is still found in some communities of Mexican origin. In Europe and other parts of the world, the surname Zambada is even rarer and mainly associated with individuals of Latin American origin. Overall, the geographical distribution of the surname Zambia is relatively limited, with a higher concentration in some parts of Latin America.

Variants and spellings of the last name Zambada

The surname Zambada can also be spelled in different ways such as Sambada, Xambada or Zambatta. These variations may sometimes result from the adaptation of the name to different languages or regions, but also from variations in spelling over time. It is important to take these variations into account in genealogical research or when communicating with family members bearing this name. Despite these variations, the Zambada family name retains its meaning and origin of Hispanic origin, and is carried by people around the world, especially in Spanish-speaking countries such as Mexico and Spain.

Famous people with the last name Zambada

The surname Zambada is associated with a Mexican family involved in drug trafficking, particularly in the Sinaloa cartel. One of the most famous personalities of this family is Ismael Zambada García, nicknamed El Mayo, considered one of the heads of the Sinaloa cartel. He is known for his discretion and influence in the world of drug trafficking, being one of the most wanted men by the Mexican and American authorities. Her daughter, Sara Zambada, also attracted media attention because of her luxurious lifestyle and social media posts. The Zambada family is often cited as one of the most powerful in the drug trade in Mexico, and its members are regularly involved in large-scale criminal cases.

Genealogical research on the last name Zambada

Genealogical research on the surname Zambada reveals a close link with the Sinaloa region of Mexico. The first traces of the Zambada family date back to the descendants of Spanish immigrants who settled in the region during the sixteenth century. This surname is associated with notable figures in Mexican history, particularly in the political and organized crime world. The Zambada lineage was strongly influenced by the rise in drug trafficking in the region, with family members involved in criminal activities. Despite these controversial associations, genealogical research on the surname Zambada highlights a rich and complex history, reflecting the impact of Mexican society and culture on this specific lineage.

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 : 11 April 2025

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