Comprehensive Guide on the Name “Robert”

Origin and Historical Background

The name Robert is of Germanic origin, derived from the Old High German elements “hrod” (fame) and “beraht” (bright). It has been widely used across Europe since the Middle Ages, gaining particular popularity in England after the Norman Conquest of 1066. The Normans introduced this robust, reputable name to the British Isles, where it became entrenched in royal and noble circles.

Meaning and Cultural Significance

The meaning of Robert, “Bright Fame,” underscores its status as a name associated with luminary presence and distinguished reputation. In various cultures, it connotes qualities like honor, glory, and strong leadership. The name’s enduring appeal lies in its connotation of renowned excellence and esteemed reputation.

Famous Historical Figures with the Name Robert

1. Robert the Bruce

• Historical Era: 14th Century
• Key Contributions: King of Scots (1306–1329), led Scotland during the First War of Scottish Independence against England.
• Cultural Impact: A national hero in Scotland, Robert the Bruce’s victory at the Battle of Bannockburn in 1314 is celebrated as a landmark in Scottish history.

2. Robert E. Lee

• Historical Era: 19th Century
• Key Contributions: Confederate General during the American Civil War.
• Cultural Impact: Despite his role in the Confederacy, Robert E. Lee is often remembered for his military prowess and complex legacy regarding states’ rights and reconciliation post-war.

3. Robert F. Kennedy

• Historical Era: 20th Century
• Key Contributions: U.S. Attorney General, Senator from New York, and Presidential Candidate.
• Cultural Impact: Known for his strong advocacy for civil rights, social justice, and against organized crime, his assassination in 1968 marked a significant point in American political history.

4. Robert Hooke

• Historical Era: 17th Century
• Key Contributions: English scientist renowned for his law of elasticity (Hooke’s Law).
• Cultural Impact: A key figure in the Scientific Revolution, Hooke made substantial contributions to fields such as astronomy, biology, and physics.

5. Robert Redford

• Historical Era: 20th and 21st Century
• Key Contributions: American actor, director, producer, and founder of the Sundance Film Festival.
• Cultural Impact: Redford’s contributions to cinema and independent filmmaking have left a lasting legacy in the arts.

Usage Over Time

Robert has enjoyed sustained popularity across centuries. In the United States, the name has consistently ranked high on baby name lists. It was one of the top names for boys throughout much of the 20th century. According to the Social Security Administration (SSA), Robert was among the top 10 names for boys from the 1920s through the 1970s and continues to be a timeless classic.

Pronunciation Guide

The name Robert is pronounced as [ˈrɑːbərt], with emphasis on the first syllable. The ‘R’ is rolled slightly, the ‘o’ is pronounced like the ‘a’ in “father,” and the ‘bert’ sounds like “burt.”

Biblical Context

While Robert is not a Biblical name, it can often be appreciated by those who seek names with strong and upright meanings which may align well with Biblical virtues. Similar names in the Bible that signify strength and leadership might offer additional context for those interested in Biblical background.

Additional Unique Information

Numerology

The name Robert resonates with the number 6 in numerology, which symbolizes care, conciliation, and sympathy.

Variations

International variants include Roberto (Italian/Spanish/Portuguese), Rupert (German), and Róbert (Hungarian/Slovak).

Cultural Variants

In various cultures, the name may be embellished with traditional or mythological significance but generally retains the connotation of esteemed eminence.

Popularity Information

Over the decades, Robert has consistently maintained a high ranking in the United States. For example:

• 1920s-1970s: Consistently within the top 10.
• 1980s-1990s: Decreased slightly but remained within the top 50.
• 2000s-2010s: Stabilized within the top 100, illustrating its lasting appeal.

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