History in the Names

Welcome to History in the Names — a timeline of historically significant baby names. All the names below saw sudden changes in usage that can be correlated to specific events in history (particularly pop culture history).

The timeline is only partially complete, but I’ll be adding more links every week, and I’ll add the rest of the years (1997 onward) as soon as I can. Be sure to bookmark this page so you can check back and see how things are progressing!

1996

moesha, television, 1990s, baby name
  • 1996 Movie characters: Sera, Nomi, Miette
  • 1996 Movies: Jumanji, Diabolique
  • 1996 TV characters: Xena, Sabrina, Moesha, Ohagi, Aeon
  • 1996 Video game characters: Sindel, Stryker
  • 1996 Actors: Quindon, Mykelti, Brosnan, Neve, Zaria
  • 1996 Song: Rebeccalynn
  • 1996 Singer: Monifah
  • 1996 Musical group: Mazzy
  • 1996 African-American magazines: Savasia
  • 1996 Rapper: Amaru
  • 1996 Sports: Jaycie, Keyshawn
  • 1996 Products: Millenia, Catera
  • 1996 Beauty queen: Banelly

1995

oasis, band, 1990s, baby name,
  • 1995 News: Baylee, Selena, Arnelle, Kaelin, Annanicole
  • 1995 Movie characters: Raynathan, Anakin, Mufasa, Sarabi, Nala, Lestat, Khaila, Tristan
  • 1995 TV characters: Chandler, Fox, Chakotay, Kes, Delenn, Corvina, Alondra, Yamilex, Maitland, Morelia, Deianeira
  • 1995 TV personality: Maty
  • 1995 TV talk show guest: Gajuan
  • 1995 Video game character: Jax
  • 1995 Actors: Mekhi, Tramanh, Khalil
  • 1995 Songs: Adalida, Alize
  • 1995 Singers: Alanis, Montell, Desree, Iridian, Saadiq, Kci, Monteco, Dangelo, Jailene
  • 1995 Rapper: Notorious
  • 1995 Musical group: Oasis
  • 1995 Sports: Mattingly, Galaxy, Rashaan, Natrone
  • 1995 Product: Natori
  • 1995 Celebrity baby: Aquinnah
  • 1995 Model: Brescia

1994

ajee, perfume, baby name, 1990s,
  • 1994 News: Ylenia, Fergie
  • 1994 Movie characters: Simba, Roemello, Draven, Lelaina, Caine, Jonah, Wyatt
  • 1994 Movie: Seattle
  • 1994 TV characters: Topanga, Danesha, Keanda, Jadzia, Keemo, Synclaire, Regine, Tangie, Marimar, Dalia, Zana, Clarisa, Elide
  • 1994 TV show: Malibu
  • 1994 TV personality: Idalis
  • 1994 Video game characters: Kitana, Mileena, Kanen, Jagar
  • 1994 Actors: Jurnee, Jocqui, Shemar, Itati, Larenz, Tyrin
  • 1994 African-American magazine: Ziyadah
  • 1994 Singers: Aaliyah, Danzig, Rajanee, Braxton
  • 1994 Rappers: Shyheim, Raekwon
  • 1994 Sports: Baggio, Kiwane, Voshon, Barkley, Oksana
  • 1994 Product: Ajee
  • 1994 Beauty queens: Blancaestela, Limairy
  • 1994 Model: Neriah

1993

selena, singer, baby name, 1990s,
  • 1993 News: Brandonlee, Thurgood, Yoandra, Asmara, Kynara, Shanythia
  • 1993 Politics: Hillary, Chelsea, Karenna
  • 1993 Movie characters: Strange, Fischer, Crysta, Raheem, Quincy
  • 1993 TV characters: Rosangelica, Kassandra, Yaritza, Khadijah, Mistica
  • 1993 TV show: Tribeca
  • 1993 TV personality: Eilish
  • 1993 TV talk show guest: Hydeia
  • 1993 TV commercials: Kebrina, Kalene, Kia
  • 1993 Video game character: Raiden
  • 1993 Actors: Coraima, Marisa, Faizon, Mayim, Tiffaniamber, Tichina, Solmayra
  • 1993 Singers: Manee, Thalia, Selena
  • 1993 Rapper: Tupac, Shakur
  • 1993 Musical groups: Zhane, Silk, Cypress
  • 1993 Sports: Tamarick
  • 1993 Products: Dijonnaise, Tavist, Kenya
  • 1993 Beauty queen: Jessuly
  • 1993 Models: Vendela, Tylyn

1992

safari, perfume, baby name, 1990s,
  • 1992 News: Nayirah, Iniki, Cheltzie
  • 1992 Immigration: Ilirida
  • 1992 Politics: Yeltsin, Hillary, Chelsea
  • 1992 Movie characters: Zandalee, Uniqua, Peyton, Sonora, Darian
  • 1992 TV characters: Drucilla, Oneisha, Marielena
  • 1992 TV personality: Montel, Myrka
  • 1992 Video game character: Cage
  • 1992 Writer: Endesha
  • 1992 Singers: Dajae, Adeva, Devante, Dalvin, Wanya, Shanice
  • 1992 Musician: Yanni
  • 1992 Musical groups: Shomari, Tesla
  • 1992 Sports: Agassi, Silken, Anfernee, Qadry, Jalen
  • 1992 Products: Kenya, Lahana, Safari, Elantra
  • 1992 Celebrity baby: Scout
  • 1992 Celebrity related: Akeiba
  • 1992 Beauty queens: Leanza, Dusharme

1991

quayshaun, singer, baby name, 1990s,
  • 1991 News: Khalea, Wachovia, Stevieray
  • 1991 War: Eritrea, Riyadh, Dhahran
  • 1991 Immigration: Liridon, Liridona
  • 1991 Movie characters: Vada, Clarke, Indigo, Furious, Tre
  • 1991 TV characters: Marimar, Novian, Tyriq, Dylan, Emilce
  • 1991 TV contestant: Symba
  • 1991 TV personality: Alaetra, Keenen
  • 1991 Actors: Ajai, Aeryk, Demi, Bryton, Jaleel
  • 1991 Literary character: Raistlin
  • 1991 Songs: Iesha, Shakiyla, Fancy
  • 1991 Singers: Mariah, Starleana, Shelby, Quayshaun
  • 1991 Musical groups: Jodeci, Jomanda, Quest
  • 1991 Sports: Drexler, Arantxa
  • 1991 Products: Samsara, Diamante, Infiniti
  • 1991 Model: Deprise

1990

stryker, television, baby name, 1990s,
  • 1990 News: Mandela, Zenani, Avianca, Tyski, Tantania
  • 1990 War: Saddam
  • 1990 Movie characters: Ariel, Mlynn, Kaneesha
  • 1990 TV characters: Isamar, Donatello, Michaelangelo, Raphael, Decker, Genele, Stryker, Shauni, Rubi
  • 1990 TV personality: Tkeyah
  • 1990 Actors: Keanu, Macaulay, Markie, Shanygne, Glenne, Ravensymone, Amairani, Denzel, Neilpatrick
  • 1990 Literary character: Kitiara
  • 1990 Songs: Angelia, Shaniqua, Shakiyla
  • 1990 Singers: Alannah, Tevin, Latifah, Sinead, Samuelle, Trinere, Tyka, Devoe, Milira, Matraca, Lakim
  • 1990 Sports: Okoye, Raghib
  • 1990 Products: Eternity, Lexus, Xeryus
  • 1990 Celebrity baby: Langley
  • 1990 Model: Kimora

1989

raiana, singer, baby name, 1980s,

1988

levert, singers, baby name, 1980s,
  • 1988 News: Chaya, Mushka
  • 1988 Movie characters: Elora, Azaria, Brantley
  • 1988 Movie: Milagro
  • 1988 TV characters: Khrystyne, Kadeem, Whitley, Charnele, Jerrica, Kimber, Maricruz, Anakaren, Alanmichael, Bianca, Egypt, Nico, Seaver
  • 1988 TV contestant: Countess
  • 1988 TV personality: Geraldo
  • 1988 Actors: Kiefer, Ronreaco, Eriq, Anthonymichael, Dawnn, Jasmine
  • 1988 Songs: Kasara, Casanova, Roni
  • 1988 Singers: Axl, Tiffany, Taja, Cyre, Sherrick, Rakim, Suave, Pebbles
  • 1988 Musicians: Tommylee
  • 1988 Musical group: Sache, Crue, Levert
  • 1988 Sports: Nattiel, Ranzino
  • 1988 Product: Ysatis
  • 1988 Celebrity baby: Satchel

1987

matlock, television, baby name, 1980s,
  • 1987 Movie characters: Maverick, Ayla, Epiphany
  • 1987 TV characters: Ridge, Holden, Jaleesa, Jeanluc, Matlock, Darylann, Kimiko, Kolya, Channing, Adderly, Lafiamma, Raysha, Oyuki, Yesenia, Kayla
  • 1987 TV personality: Shadoe
  • 1987 Actors: Cruise, Esai, Sagan
  • 1987 Literary character: Killashandra
  • 1987 Songs: Luka, Adidas, Janay, Adilene
  • 1987 Singers: Cetera, Tawatha, Najee, Trisco, Byanka
  • 1987 Musical group: Jovi
  • 1987 Sports: Olajide, Teyon, Kreigh, Hogan, Labradford
  • 1987 Products: Perrier, Drakkar, Allante, Corsica, Wrangler, Alize
  • 1987 Celebrity babies: Shakari, Condola
  • 1987 Celebrity related: Stedman
  • 1987 Beauty queens: Anabelli, Kayelani
  • 1987 Model: Tatjana

1986

generra, clothing, brand, baby name, 1980s,
  • 1986 News: Christa, Halley
  • 1986 Movie characters: Jareth, Louden
  • 1986 TV characters: Bliss, Sabella, Sable, Randall, Channing, Cristal, Eliana, Jem, Cordero, Farren, Britta, Addison, Maddie, Jayce, Miles, Virgilia, Ashton
  • 1986 TV contestant: Mayuri
  • 1986 TV personalities: Oprah, Vanna, Khambrel
  • 1986 Actors: Taimak, Malcolmjamal, Raedawn, Jeannette
  • 1986 African-American magazines: Tchanavian
  • 1986 Songs: Kyrie, Bocephus, Nikita
  • 1986 Singers: Martika, Cymone, Myleka, Whitney, Cherrelle
  • 1986 Musicians: Wynton, Marsalis
  • 1986 Sports: Kylor, Josimar
  • 1986 Products: Calizza, Lutece
  • 1986 Brands: Ellesse, Generra
  • 1986 Beauty queen: Marlesa

1985

sade, singer, baby name, 1980s,

1984

thawann, television, baby name, 1980s,

1983

billie jean, song, baby name, 1980s,
  • 1983 News: Klisha, Etan
  • 1983 Movie character: Savannah
  • 1983 TV characters: Meggie, Mallory, Alex, Elyse, Kiel, Callahan, Valene, Daisy, Ciji, Echo, Jimmylee, Tyger, Jonerik, Kirby, Sorangel, Doralee, Remington, Devlin
  • 1983 TV personality: Darcel
  • 1983 Actor: Kiel
  • 1983 Literary characters: Audrina, Erienne
  • 1983 Songs: Billiejean, Rio, Jeopardy
  • 1983 Singers: Vickiana
  • 1983 Sports: Olajuwon, Akeem, Cozell, Micheaux
  • 1983 Product: Pavielle

1982

vanity, singers, baby name, 1980s,

1981

andron, cologne, baby name, 1980s,
  • 1981 News: Tshwanda
  • 1981 Politics: Mubarak, Giscard
  • 1981 Movie characters: Tashina
  • 1981 TV characters: Krystle, Jenilee, Mikkos, Shirret, Afton, Masada, Kaleena, Fallon, Martine, Magnum, Scorpio, Evita
  • 1981 TV show: Dynasty
  • 1981 Actors: Taurean, Nastassia, Shavar, Argenis, Brandis
  • 1981 Song: Fame
  • 1981 Singers: Crystalgayle, Tiemeyer, Sadane, Kapono
  • 1981 Musical groups: Journey, Tierra
  • 1981 Sports: Triandos, Yannick
  • 1981 Products: Chardon, Toccara, Andron, Antaeus, Nahema

1980

jordache, clothing, brand, baby name, 1980s,
  • 1980 News: Shanndolyn
  • 1980 Politics: Rajai
  • 1980 Movie character: Ilia
  • 1980 TV characters: Maxx, Starshemah, Nyah, Almanzo, Martine, Mariko, Estefania, Yara
  • 1980 TV movie: Jericho
  • 1980 Actors: Erik, Estrada, Bo, Derek
  • 1980 African-American magazines: Nykeba, Kimario
  • 1980 Song: Leyna
  • 1980 Singers: Tiffany, Ullanda
  • 1980 Musical group: Shalamar
  • 1980 Sports: Magic, Cheyne, Hanni, Bjorn
  • 1980 Products: Jordache, Murjani, Brittania, Tasha
  • 1980 Brands: Lerin, Jheri
  • 1980 Beauty queen: Lencola

1979

gelsey, ballet, baby name, 1970s,
  • 1979 News: Gelsey, Shaylyn
  • 1979 Politics: Ayatollah
  • 1979 Movie characters: Jorel, Santini
  • 1979 TV characters: Starbuck, Tigh, Cassiopeia, Serina, Apollo, Random, Zebulon, Sulay, Mindy, Sindy, Pasquinel, Jana, Viviana
  • 1979 TV contestants: Dilanjan, Risha
  • 1979 TV personality: Kebrina
  • 1979 Actors: Aarika, Shatonga, Brianne
  • 1979 Literary character: Tamarisk
  • 1979 Songs: Sharona
  • 1979 Singers: Geddy, Amii, Anacani
  • 1979 Musician: Narada
  • 1979 Musical group: Chanson
  • 1979 Sports: Tekulve, Terdell
  • 1979 Products: Chimere, Atari, Darci
  • 1979 Celebrity babies: Leiya, Shaherah, Anansa
  • 1979 Celebrity related: Karac, Shanga, Kayatana
  • 1979 Beauty queen: Kylene

1978

qiana, fabric, baby name, 1970s,
  • 1978 News: Dequan, Biko
  • 1978 Movie characters: Leia, Luke
  • 1978 TV characters: Loribeth, Sayward, Sulie, Demelza, Karenina, Chrissy, Roarke, Astria, Bailey, Winter, Adama, Danay
  • 1978 Actors: Travolta, Namath, Kene
  • 1978 African-American magazines: Deonca, Kenisha, Eronda, Aba
  • 1978 Songs: Aja, Desiree
  • 1978 Singers: Boz, Estibaliz, Davidlee
  • 1978 Sports: Mychal, Andretti, Dorsett, Theus
  • 1978 Products: Ariane, Ambi, Enjoli, Qiana
  • 1978 Celebrity babies: Katiria, Jarian
  • 1978 Celebrity related: Kushana

1977

rhiannon, song, baby name, 1970s,

1976

nadia, comaneci, olympics, baby names, 1970s,

1975

benji, movie, baby name, 1970s,

1974

kojak, television, baby name, 1970s,
  • 1974 News: Abeni, Habibah, Hasina, Salama, Shani, Halima, Charnissa
  • 1974 Politics: Sirica
  • 1974 Movie character: Marjoe
  • 1974 TV characters: Nakia, Kojak, Willona, Jobina, Dayanara, Ticey, Jimbob, Pashen
  • 1974 TV contestant: Scoey
  • 1974 Actor: Telly, Savalas
  • 1974 Literary character: Rhiannon
  • 1974 Songs: Sundown, Kalimba
  • 1974 Singers: Lacosta, Chaka
  • 1974 Musician: Turiya
  • 1974 Musical group: Tavares
  • 1974 Sports: Condredge, Jaworski
  • 1974 Product: Ciara
  • 1974 Celebrity babies: Kidada, Shalawn, Courtney

1973

aubrey, song, baby name, 1970s,
  • 1973 News: Morningstar, Sacheen, Yaminah, Zahra, Abdu, Bakari, Hasani, Jelani, Fatima, Kamilah, Dalila, Jabari
  • 1973 Movie characters: Season, Coffy, Jory
  • 1973 TV characters: Toma, Snapper, Caine, Hec, Alethea, Bridget, Kiona, Contessa
  • 1973 TV personality: Cavett
  • 1973 Actors: Cicely, Mackenzie, Yajaira, Vonetta, Tatum
  • 1973 Literary characters: Eowyn, Strider
  • 1973 Writer: Xaviera
  • 1973 African-American magazines: Loukisha
  • 1973 Song: Aubrey
  • 1973 Singers: Ralna, Airrion
  • 1973 Musical groups: Cymande, Mandrill
  • 1973 Sports: Cedeno, Billiejean
  • 1973 Product: Trevira
  • 1973 Celebrity babies: Yohance, Taj, Tracee

1972

brandy, song, baby name, 1970s,
  • 1972 News: Mieke
  • 1972 Movie characters: Chato, Sancho, Billyjack, Cable
  • 1972 TV characters: Katina, Vashon, Delta, Demond, Cade
  • 1972 TV show: Trek
  • 1972 TV personality: Chastity
  • 1972 Actors: Cybill, Akili, Amitabh
  • 1972 Literary character: Erendira
  • 1972 Songs: Sossity, Brandy
  • 1972 Singers: Carly, Melanie, Adaryll, Marlon, Lasalle
  • 1972 Musicians: Manu, Bayete
  • 1972 Sports: Kipchoge, Keino, Kareem, Abdul, Jabbar, Erubey, Keena
  • 1972 Products: Ciara, Cachet
  • 1972 Celebrity baby: Krisinda

1971

shaft, movie, baby name, 1970s,
  • 1971 News: Doria
  • 1971 Movie characters: Shaft, Bree, Sundance, Tristana, Zachariah, Trinity
  • 1971 TV characters: Uhura, Cissy, Jody, Heshimu, Chad, Dodie, Yesenia
  • 1971 TV shows: Alias, Anzio
  • 1971 Actors: Brando, Yaphet, Veleka, Damu
  • 1971 African-American magazines: Shango, Kwabene, Kwame, Diallo, Sekou, Jaja, Azikiwe, Nkenge, Lumumba, Lawanika
  • 1971 Songs: Layla, Amoreena, Scotty, Tomorrow, Dindi
  • 1971 Singers: Jermaine, Lajuane, Sigmund, Shelbra
  • 1971 Musical group: Santana
  • 1971 Musical albums: Abraxas, Thembi
  • 1971 Sports: Unseld
  • 1971 Product: Corelle
  • 1971 Celebrity babies: Ayanna, Shangaleza
  • 1971 Celebrity related: Altovise

1970

shilo, song, baby name, 1970s,
  • 1970 News: Turi, Donzaleigh, Juandalynn, Alprentice, Reeshemah
  • 1970 Politics: Arafat
  • 1970 Movie characters: Cresta, Shalako
  • 1970 TV characters: Mcgarrett, Mano, Dodie, Tara, Jolyon, Nyree, Loey, Tatanisha, Kinita, Erica, Sabrina
  • 1970 TV contestant: Alisande
  • 1970 Actors: Falana, Brandon, Dyan, Shakira, Saby, Ahna, Marki
  • 1970 Literary characters: Aragorn, Gandalf
  • 1970 Songs: Shilo, Fancy, Cherie, Aquarius
  • 1970 Singers: Bobbie, Gentry, Toriano, Massiel, Jermaine, Sacha
  • 1970 Products: Torino, Embra, Doral
  • 1970 Brands: Shindana, Pepsi, Loreal
  • 1970 Celebrity baby: Rasheda
  • 1970 Celebrity related: Syreeta
  • 1970 Beauty queen: Rewa

1969

barbarella, movie, baby name, 1960s,

1968

carrie anne, song, baby name, 1960s,
  • 1968 News: Christiaan, Coretta, Yolanda, Dexter, Trenny, Torben
  • 1968 Politics: Che, Onassis
  • 1968 Movie characters: Neely, Stassa
  • 1968 TV characters: Laryssa, Jemal, Josette, Angelique, Lahoma, Kelly, Shahna, Kelinda, Layle, Manolito, Lancer, Blue, Shana
  • 1968 Actors: Dustin, Dack
  • 1968 Literary characters: Arwen, Thorin
  • 1968 Songs: Carrieanne, Lalena, Valleri
  • 1968 Singer: Quetcy
  • 1968 Musical group: Shondell
  • 1968 Sports: Orenthal, Alcindor
  • 1968 Product: Charisma
  • 1968 Celebrity baby: Maryum

1967

alfie, movie, song, baby name, 1960s,
  • 1967 News: Svetlana, Ronisue, Roni, Tandeka
  • 1967 TV characters: Tonia, Clayt, Cinnamon, Buffy, Hondo, Mannix, Dulcey, Rosaisela
  • 1967 Actors: Millette, Sivi, Cami, Vitina
  • 1967 Literary character: Kerith
  • 1967 Comics: Geisha
  • 1967 Songs: Alfie, Georgy, Sharmon, Windy
  • 1967 Singer: Nico
  • 1967 Sports: Cazzie
  • 1967 Product: Camaro
  • 1967 Celebrity baby: Joely, Erinn, Chalene
  • 1967 Celebrity related: Tahnee, Devara
  • 1967 Model: Twiggy

1966

daktari, television, baby name, 1960s,
  • 1966 News: Agena, Bedar
  • 1966 Politics: Indira
  • 1966 Movie character: Raef
  • 1966 TV characters: Gidget, Audra, Heath, Tabitha, Tabatha, Tamantha, Alfy, Tavio, Anissa, Artemus
  • 1966 TV shows: Peyton, Daktari
  • 1966 TV contestant: Sheva
  • 1966 Actor: Marlo
  • 1966 Comics: Yesenia
  • 1966 Songs: Cherish, Caramia
  • 1966 Singer: Lainie
  • 1966 Product: Caprice
  • 1966 Celebrity related: Sonji
  • 1966 Model: Donyale

1965

gemini, space program, baby name, 1960s,
  • 1965 News: Gemini
  • 1965 Politics: Luci
  • 1965 Movie characters: Liesl, Sugar, Shelleen, Santee
  • 1965 TV characters: Samantha, Darrin, Endora, Morticia, Wednesday, Tatia, Illya, Petina, Bettyjo, Cara, Shenandoah, Jarrod, Allison, Rodney
  • 1965 TV show: Addam
  • 1965 Actors: Daliah, Virna, Lisi, Ursula, Mia
  • 1965 Literary characters: Kerensa, Mellyora
  • 1965 Singers: Petula, Fontella, Fanita
  • 1965 Sports: Marichal, Diron
  • 1965 Celebrity baby: Xan
  • 1965 Beauty queens: Apasra, Vonda
  • 1965 Model: Kecia

1964

charade, movie, baby name, 1960s,
  • 1964 News: Hope
  • 1964 Politics: Lyndon, Kennedy, Jacqueline, Fitzgerald, Caroline
  • 1964 Movie characters: Taggart, Hud, Dhana, Guendalina
  • 1964 TV characters: Destry, Quint, Trampas, Thedy, Bobbiejo, Djuna, Tessa, Zina
  • 1964 TV contestant: Celynn
  • 1964 TV commercial: Deneen
  • 1964 Actors: Janssen, Pleshette, Inger, Senta, Diahn, Cherylene, Julissa
  • 1964 Songs: Dawn, Charade
  • 1964 Singer: Bavan
  • 1964 Musician: Ringo
  • 1964 Sports: Nicklaus, Deron

1963

lolita, movie, baby name, 1960s,
  • 1963 News: Medgar, Martin, Camala, Troylene
  • 1963 Politics: Bouvier
  • 1963 Movie characters: Lolita, Cybele, Heavenly, Phaedra, Tamiko
  • 1963 TV characters: Pebbles, Grindl, Brycie, Tal, Sutton, Stoney, Joby, Stanja, Glynis, Jerrod, Trisha
  • 1963 TV contestant: Candi
  • 1963 Actors: Keir, Tippi, Anjanette
  • 1963 Song: Paula
  • 1963 Musical groups: Chiffon, Jaynette
  • 1963 Sports: Cepeda
  • 1963 Products: Tressy, Wondra, Chevelle
  • 1963 Brand: Tangerine

1962

chubby, musician, baby name, 1960s,
  • 1962 News: Glenn
  • 1962 Movie characters: Weena, Lyrae, Antigone, Chimene, Elcid, Jessica
  • 1962 Movie: Tiffany
  • 1962 TV characters: Toika, Daphne, Daffy, Perette, Price
  • 1962 TV contestant: Dorinda
  • 1962 Actors: Lynley, Clu, Anja, Yarnell
  • 1962 African-American magazines: Annazette
  • 1962 Comics: Tashia
  • 1962 Song: Novalee
  • 1962 Singers: Chubby, Makeba, Billiejean, Timi
  • 1962 Products: Antron, Artra
  • 1962 Celebrity baby: Dodd
  • 1962 Celebrity related: Movita, Kippie
  • 1962 Beauty queens: Clintona, Penne, Gordean
  • 1962 Model: Sheralee

1961

velvet, television, baby name, 1960s,
  • 1961 News: Yuri, Charlayne, Maribel, Gamble
  • 1961 Politics: Jacqueline, Caroline
  • 1961 Movie characters: Ari, Akiva, Varinia, Parrish, Merritt, Ilya
  • 1961 TV characters: Velvet, Edwina, Wina, Ward, Jimbo, Zelda, Kiz, Caprice, Tawney, Brook, Tanoa, Chuckie, Cord, Amby, Jana
  • 1961 Actors: Tarita, Gig, Capucine, Kipp, Zimbalist, Marisol
  • 1961 African-American magazines: Jacy
  • 1961 Songs: Corinna, Marylou
  • 1961 Singers: Damita, Joselito
  • 1961 Musical group: Shirelle
  • 1961 Sports: Rafer
  • 1961 Products: Ondine, Falcon
  • 1961 Celebrity baby: Timolin
  • 1961 Celebrity related: Aissa, Jefre

1960

devy, television, baby name, 1960s,

1959

renault, dauphine, car, baby names, 1950s,

1958

attila, movie, baby name, 1950s,

1957

tammy, movie, baby name, 1950s,

1956

cubby, television, baby name, 1950s,
  • 1956 News: Jimalee, Deltina, Andrea
  • 1956 Politics: Averell
  • 1956 Movie characters: Cherie, Jubal, Dart, Trace, Marty
  • 1956 TV characters: Calamity, Cheyenne, Keena, Pepi, Jace, Sheena
  • 1956 TV personalities: Cubby, Annette
  • 1956 Actors: Audie, Marisa, Siobhan, Tirrell, Lugene
  • 1956 Literary character: Melora
  • 1956 Comics: Dondi, Skye
  • 1956 Songs: Takeela, Glendora
  • 1956 Singers: Elvis, Jaye
  • 1956 Brand: Decca
  • 1956 Celebrity baby: Seneca
  • 1956 Celebrity related: Rainier, Dreux, Shevaun

1955

kismet, comic, baby name, 1950s,

1954

bimbo, song, baby name, 1950s,

1953

finesse, shampoo, baby name, 1950s,

1952

faron, musician, baby name, 1950s,
  • 1952 News: Vickye
  • 1952 Politics: Eisenhower, Kennan
  • 1952 Movie characters: Danon, Pandora, Lygeia
  • 1952 TV character: Claudia
  • 1952 TV contestant: Rondi
  • 1952 TV personality: Buff
  • 1952 Actor: Keefe
  • 1952 Literary characters: Gevan, Fancy
  • 1952 Song: Charmaine
  • 1952 Singers: Faron, Adriel
  • 1952 Beauty queen: Jodell

1951

korla, musician, television, baby name,1950s,

1950

frosty, song, baby name, 1950s,

1949

clovia, comics, baby name, 1940s,
  • 1949 News: Rainell, Darrylin, Tighe, Randye, Ltanya
  • 1948 Politics: Alben
  • 1949 Movie characters: Fabienne, Judaline, Belinda, Lark
  • 1949 Radio character: Chuckie
  • 1949 Actor: Kirk
  • 1949 Literary character: Caresse
  • 1949 Comics: Clovia, Arn
  • 1949 Sports: Ezzard
  • 1949 Celebrity baby: Yasmin

1948

  • 1948 News: Gwyned, Sharman, Rolayne, Wrayanne
  • 1948 Politics: Dewey
  • 1948 Movie characters: Tisa, Lash, Darina, Catana, Scheherazade
  • 1948 Actors: Viveca, Valli, Alida, Paget
  • 1948 Comics: Sparkle
  • 1948 Song: Lillette
  • 1948 Sports: Doak
  • 1948 Product: Tawn

1947

  • 1947 News: Cabrini
  • 1947 Movie characters: Rissa, Rory, Miralee, Jody, Ginna, Bedelia
  • 1947 Radio character: Carson
  • 1947 Actors: Cyd, Deborah, Vanessa, Dana
  • 1947 Songs: Jolie, Linda
  • 1947 Comics: Meridy, Valiant
  • 1947 Sports: Mauri
  • 1947 Model: Junellen

1946

  • 1946 News: Jyme, Tondra, Cherylene
  • 1946 Movie characters: Gilda, Ridgely, Francie, Veda
  • 1946 Radio character: Corliss
  • 1946 Radio panelist: Glenn
  • 1946 Radio singer: Connee
  • 1946 Actors: Charisse, Jorja, Peggyann, Teala, Ilona, Cornel
  • 1946 Comics: Darlia
  • 1946 Brand: Drene

1945

  • 1945 News: Harolyn
  • 1945 Politics: Truman
  • 1945 Movie characters: Sherida, Allida, Velvet, Marisela
  • 1945 Actors: Allyson, Van
  • 1945 Comics: Chipper
  • 1945 Songs: Laura, Caldonia

1944

1943

rosalita, song, baby name, 1940s,

1942

normandie, comics, baby name, 1940s,

1941

  • 1941 News: Nawatha, Rulon
  • 1941 Politics: Spessard
  • 1941 Movie character: Nyoka
  • 1941 Radio character: Portia
  • 1941 Radio panelist: Gerard
  • 1941 Actors: Gloriajean, Greer, Errol
  • 1941 Literary character: Bronwen
  • 1941 Comics: Raven
  • 1941 Musician: Saford
  • 1941 Celebrity baby: Jerilyn

1940

1939

1938

1937

leilani, song, baby name, 1930s,
  • 1937 Movie character: Swanee
  • 1937 Actors: Tyrone, Errol, Luise
  • 1937 Literary characters: Scarlett, Aletta, Loueen
  • 1937 Song: Leilani
  • 1937 Singers: Kirsten, Deanna
  • 1937 Sports: Gaynell

1936

1935

  • 1935 News: Dewilla, Norita, Huey
  • 1935 Politics: Haile
  • 1935 Movie characters: Trenna, Peola
  • 1935 Radio singer: Francia
  • 1935 Actor: Shirley
  • 1935 Literary character: Gailord
  • 1935 Comics: Rheeta, Normandie
  • 1935 Sports: Dizzy
  • 1935 Celebrity related: Marva

1934

1933

nira, legislation, baby name, 1930s,
  • 1933 News: Gayleen, Aleeta, Ardoth
  • 1933 Politics: Franklin, Delano, Ellender
  • 1933 Legislation: Nira
  • 1933 Radio character: Skippy
  • 1933 Literary characters: Sharlie, Patsyann, Sharlene, Perilla
  • 1933 Comics: Ardala
  • 1933 Musician: Valaida

1932

  • 1932 News: Thalia
  • 1932 Politics: Garner
  • 1932 Movie character: Toya
  • 1932 Radio singer: Ilomay
  • 1932 Actor: Gwili
  • 1932 Comics: Alura

1931

1930

joretta, book, baby name, 1930s,
  • 1930 News: Arlayne, Jerrylene
  • 1930 Movie characters: Allana, Dixiana
  • 1930 Literary characters: Joretta, Elanda, Ardeth
  • 1930 Writer: Grantland

1929

  • 1929 Politics: Depriest
  • 1929 Actor: Davey
  • 1929 Literary character: Alayne
  • 1929 Song: Jeannine
  • 1929 Brand: Uneeda

1928

  • 1928 News: Yuvawn
  • 1928 Politics: Hoover, Curtis, Mederic, Huey
  • 1928 Literary character: Gerane
  • 1928 Comics: Corky
  • 1928 Songs: Ramona, Charmaine

1927

  • 1927 News: Lindbergh, Floella, Rudolph, Valentino, Uldine, Seroba
  • 1927 Politics: Bidwell
  • 1927 Movie characters: Jahala, Sunya, Aloma
  • 1927 Actors: Jobyna, Joyzelle, Vilma
  • 1927 Literary character: Amaryllis
  • 1927 Writer: Mateel
  • 1927 Songs: Marylou, Iyone, Diane, Valencia

1926

  • 1926 News: Rudolph, Ileana
  • 1926 Politics: Bibb
  • 1926 Movie characters: Orchid, Jinx
  • 1926 Actors: Gaynor, Adoree
  • 1926 Literary character: Narice, Alverna
  • 1926 Sports: Tunney

1925

  • 1925 News: Valoyce
  • 1925 Politics: Paulina
  • 1925 Literary character: Irmalee

1924

  • 1924 News: Derelys, Myraline
  • 1924 Politics: Coolidge, Dawes
  • 1924 Movie character: Mescal
  • 1924 Actor: Julanne
  • 1924 Literary characters: Charis, Chadyeane, Laline
  • 1924 Product: Juneve

1923

1922

  • 1922 News: Dellora, Donaldine
  • 1922 Movie characters: Moonyeen
  • 1922 Actors: Marilyn, Leatrice
  • 1922 Literary character: Daren

1921

  • 1921 News: Madalynne
  • 1921 Politics: Denby
  • 1921 Actor: Corliss
  • 1921 Song: Avalon
  • 1921 Beauty queens: Edithmae, Garnelle

1920

dardanella, song, baby name, 1920s,

1919

  • 1919 News: Belvin, Nellora
  • 1919 Movie character: Nedda
  • 1919 Literary characters: Viviette, Tharon
  • 1919 Brand: Mazola

1918

1917

1916

  • 1916 War: Verdun, Funston
  • 1916 Politics: Woodrow, Hughes
  • 1916 Immigration: Cono
  • 1916 Movie characters: Nokomis, Ysobel, Fortune
  • 1916 Theater character: Wetona
  • 1916 Actor: Ormi
  • 1916 Literary character: Ortrude, Trudis
  • 1916 Products: Adora, Anola
  • 1916 Brand: Milady

1915

  • 1915 War: Trieste, Gorizia
  • 1915 Movie characters: Zudora, Elaine, Billee
  • 1915 Actors: Signe, Theda
  • 1915 Literary character: Stelmo
  • 1915 Sports: Jess, Willard

1914

  • 1914 War: Joffre
  • 1914 Politics: Carranza, Balfour, Underwood
  • 1914 Movie characters: Pauline, Carmina, Nello, Saxon
  • 1914 Literary character: Pollyanna

1913

  • 1913 News: Vilas
  • 1913 Politics: Colquitt
  • 1913 Movie characters: Oceola, Kathlyn, Alois
  • 1913 Writer: Maravene

1912

  • 1912 News: Roald, Bertil
  • 1912 Politics: Woodrow, Debs
  • 1912 Movie character: Undine
  • 1912 Movie: Derna
  • 1912 Actor: Francelia
  • 1912 Literary character: Truxton
  • 1912 Sports: Percy, Harvard

1911

1910

1909

(nothing yet)

1908

  • 1908 News: Robley
  • 1908 Politics: Taft

1907

1906

nedra, book, baby name, 1900s,

1905

(nothing yet)

1904

  • 1904 Politics: Roosevelt, Theodore, Parker, Alton, Fairbanks

1903

anona, song, baby name, 1900s,

1902

(nothing yet)

1901

  • 1901 Politics: Kermit

1900

  • 1900 Politics: Mckinley
  • 1900 Literary character: Jocelyn

1899

  • 1899 News: Goebel, Elvia, Veva

1898

1897

(nothing yet)

1896

silver, politics, baby name, 1890s,

1895

  • 1895 Literary character: Trilby

1894

(nothing yet)

1893

  • 1893 News: Eulalia

1892

  • 1892 Politics: Grover, Adlai, Whitelaw
  • 1892 Sports: Corbett

1891

(nothing yet)

1890

  • 1890 News: Woodfin

1889

  • 1889 News: Grady

1888

  • 1888 News: Ebba
  • 1888 Politics: Grover, Harrison, Morton, Thurman, Alson, Belva

1887

(nothing yet)

1886

(nothing yet)

1885

  • 1885 Politics: Cleveland

1884

  • 1884 Politics: Grover, Blaine, Logan, Belva

1883

(nothing yet)

1882

(nothing yet)

1881

  • 1881 Politics: Garfield

1880

  • 1880 Politics: Winfield

***

Footnotes…

  • The data comes from the U.S. Social Security Administration. Here’s the downloadable SSA data.
  • The “changes in usage” I’m focusing on are:
    • re-emergences in the data after an absence (Charlayne).
  • If you know of a name that I’ve forgotten to include in any of the years listed so far, please get in touch!
  • Names with a single association are listed on the timeline once. Names with several associations are listed several times. For any name that saw multiple-year “changes in usage” due to the same influence, I made an executive decision about where to place it on the timeline.
  • Wanna help me solve a mystery?