Breckenridge Surname

Introduction

The surname Breckenridge is a well-known surname with a rich history and widespread distribution. In this article, we will explore the origins, variations, and prevalence of the surname Breckenridge across different countries. By analyzing data on the incidence of the surname in various countries, we can gain insights into the historical migrations and demographics of the Breckenridge family.

Origins of the Surname Breckenridge

The surname Breckenridge is of Scottish origin, derived from the place name Brechin in Angus, Scotland. The name Brechin itself comes from the Gaelic word “breacán” which means speckled or spotted. The addition of “ridge” to the name likely refers to a settlement on a hill or ridge, giving the surname the meaning of “speckled hill.”

During the medieval period, surnames were often derived from a person’s occupation, location, or nickname. The surname Breckenridge likely originated as a toponymic surname, indicating that the family lived near or in the town of Brechin. Over time, the surname spread beyond Scotland to other English-speaking countries through migration and colonization.

Variations of the Surname Breckenridge

Like many surnames, Breckenridge has variations in spelling and pronunciation across different regions. Some common variations of the surname include Brackenridge, Brakenridge, and Brackeridge. These variations may have arisen due to transcription errors, dialectal differences, or personal preferences.

In some cases, individuals with the surname Breckenridge may choose to anglicize or simplify the spelling of their surname for ease of use or pronunciation. However, regardless of the spelling variation, these individuals are still considered part of the larger Breckenridge family lineage.

Prevalence of the Surname Breckenridge

United States (US)

In the United States, the surname Breckenridge is relatively common, with an incidence of 6380 individuals bearing the name. The surname is most prevalent in states with a strong Scottish heritage such as Kentucky, Tennessee, and Virginia. Many prominent individuals in American history have carried the surname Breckenridge, including John C. Breckinridge, who served as the 14th Vice President of the United States.

Canada (CA)

In Canada, the surname Breckenridge is less common compared to the United States, with an incidence of 511 individuals. The surname is found primarily in provinces with historical ties to Scotland such as Ontario and British Columbia. The Breckenridge family in Canada has contributed to various fields, including politics, academia, and business.

United Kingdom (Scotland, England, Wales)

In the United Kingdom, the surname Breckenridge has a significant presence, with the highest incidence in Scotland at 286 individuals. The surname is also found in England and Wales, with 176 and 6 individuals respectively. The Breckenridge family in the UK has a long history dating back to medieval times, with several notable clan members throughout the centuries.

Australia (AU)

In Australia, the surname Breckenridge has a moderate presence, with an incidence of 272 individuals. The surname is found across various states and territories, with concentrations in urban centers such as Sydney and Melbourne. The Breckenridge family in Australia has made significant contributions to the arts, academia, and sports.

Other Countries

Outside of the US, Canada, UK, and Australia, the surname Breckenridge is less common but still present in several countries. Countries such as Costa Rica, South Africa, Singapore, and Germany have small populations of individuals with the surname. These individuals may be descendants of Scottish immigrants or have acquired the surname through marriage or other means.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the surname Breckenridge is a prominent surname with Scottish origins and a global presence. Through analyzing the incidence of the surname in different countries, we can trace the historical migrations and demographics of the Breckenridge family. Whether in the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Australia, or other countries, the Breckenridge surname continues to thrive and contribute to society.

The surname Breckenridge within the globe

Globalization has meant that surnames distribute far beyond their country of origin, so that it can be done to get African surnames in Europe or Indian surnames in Oceania. Exactly the same occurs in the case of Breckenridge, which as you are able to corroborate, it can be said that it's a surname that may be found in all the countries associated with globe. Just as you can find nations in which certainly the thickness of men and women with all the surname Breckenridge is greater than in other countries.

The map of the Breckenridge surname

View Breckenridge surname map

The likelihood of examining on a globe map about which nations hold a greater number of Breckenridge on earth, helps us a lot. By putting ourselves on the map, for a tangible country, we can understand tangible number of individuals with all the surname Breckenridge, to acquire in this manner the precise information of all the Breckenridge that you could presently find in that country. All this also assists us to understand not just in which the surname Breckenridge comes from, but also in excatly what way the folks who are initially an element of the family that bears the surname Breckenridge have moved and moved. In the same manner, you are able to see by which places they will have settled and developed, which is the reason why if Breckenridge is our surname, it appears interesting to which other countries of the world it will be possible this one of our ancestors once relocated to.

Countries with more Breckenridge on earth

  1. United States United States (6380)
  2. Canada Canada (511)
  3. Scotland Scotland (286)
  4. Australia Australia (272)
  5. England England (176)
  6. Costa Rica Costa Rica (32)
  7. South Africa South Africa (31)
  8. Singapore Singapore (19)
  9. Guam Guam (8)
  10. India India (7)
  11. Panama Panama (6)
  12. Wales Wales (6)
  13. Switzerland Switzerland (5)
  14. Isle of Man Isle of Man (5)
  15. Germany Germany (4)
  16. Sri Lanka Sri Lanka (4)
  17. Russia Russia (3)
  18. Philippines Philippines (2)
  19. Italy Italy (2)
  20. Japan Japan (2)
  21. Mexico Mexico (2)
  22. Netherlands Netherlands (2)
  23. Norway Norway (1)
  24. New Zealand New Zealand (1)
  25. United Arab Emirates United Arab Emirates (1)
  26. Afghanistan Afghanistan (1)
  27. Thailand Thailand (1)
  28. Brazil Brazil (1)
  29. Bahamas Bahamas (1)
  30. Spain Spain (1)
  31. France France (1)
  32. Guatemala Guatemala (1)
  33. Indonesia Indonesia (1)
  34. Ireland Ireland (1)
  35. South Korea South Korea (1)
  36. Kuwait Kuwait (1)