Fiztgerald Surname

The Origins of the Surname FitzGerald

The surname FitzGerald is of Anglo-Norman origin, derived from the Old French name 'Filsz Gerard', meaning 'son of Gerard'. The prefix 'Fitz' is a Norman-French word meaning 'son of', which was commonly used in surnames to denote lineage. The name Gerard itself is of Germanic origin, derived from the elements 'ger', meaning 'spear', and 'hard', meaning 'brave' or 'strong'.

Early Origins of the FitzGerald Clan

The FitzGerald clan traces its roots back to the medieval period in Europe, particularly in Norman-occupied England and Ireland. The first recorded use of the FitzGerald surname dates back to the 12th century, when Maurice FitzGerald arrived in Ireland as a knight in the service of the English king Henry II. Maurice FitzGerald went on to become one of the most powerful and influential figures in Ireland, playing a key role in the Norman conquest of the country.

The FitzGerald Clan in Ireland

After the Norman invasion of Ireland in the 12th century, the FitzGerald clan established themselves as one of the most prominent and powerful Anglo-Norman families in the country. They quickly rose to prominence, acquiring vast estates and titles, and intermarrying with the Gaelic Irish nobility. The FitzGeralds played a significant role in the politics and governance of Ireland for centuries, becoming one of the leading families in the country.

The FitzGerald Clan in the United States

The FitzGerald surname has a significant presence in the United States, with a particularly high incidence in the country. The FitzGerald family is one of the oldest and most prestigious Anglo-Norman families in the United States, with a long history of political and social influence. Many prominent figures in American history have been of FitzGerald descent, including politicians, businessmen, and military leaders.

The FitzGerald Clan in Australia

Although less common than in the United States, the FitzGerald surname is also found in Australia, with a moderate incidence in the country. Australian FitzGeralds can trace their roots back to the early colonial period when British settlers arrived in the country. Today, there are FitzGerald families spread across Australia, with a diverse range of occupations and interests.

The FitzGerald Clan in Colombia

Despite being less common than in other countries, the FitzGerald surname is also present in Colombia, with a relatively low incidence in the country. Colombian FitzGeralds may have roots in the Spanish colonial period when European settlers arrived in South America. Today, there are FitzGerald families in Colombia, with a variety of backgrounds and professions.

The FitzGerald Clan in England

Although relatively rare, the FitzGerald surname is also found in England, with a low incidence in the country. English FitzGeralds may trace their lineage back to the medieval period when the surname first appeared in the country. Today, there are FitzGerald families in England, carrying on the legacy of their Norman ancestors.

The surname Fiztgerald into the globe

Globalization has meant that surnames distribute far beyond their country of origin, so that it can be done to find African surnames in Europe or Indian surnames in Oceania. Exactly the same takes place in the case of Fiztgerald, which as you're able to corroborate, it can be said it is a surname that may be found in the majority of the countries of this globe. Just as you will find nations in which certainly the thickness of individuals using the surname Fiztgerald is higher than in other countries.

The map of this Fiztgerald surname

1. United States (18)
2. Australia (4)
3. Colombia (1)
4. England (1)
5. Ireland (1)