Varela mendes Surname

The Origin of the Surname Varela Mendes

The surname Varela Mendes is a common surname found in several countries, including Cape Verde (CV), Brazil (BR), France (FR), and Switzerland (CH). Its incidence is particularly high in Cape Verde, where it is the most common surname, with a 38% incidence rate. In Brazil and France, its incidence is 8%, and in Switzerland, it is only 1%.

Historical Origins

The surname Varela Mendes has Spanish and Portuguese origins. The name Varela is of Spanish origin, derived from the Old Spanish word "varela," which means "spear." The surname is believed to have originated as a nickname for someone who was skilled in spear throwing or fighting. The surname Mendes is of Portuguese origin and is derived from the Latin word "mendicus," meaning "beggar" or "mendicant." It is likely that the surname Mendes was originally given to someone who was a beggar or had a connection to the poor or needy.

Migration Patterns

Due to the historical connections between Spain and Portugal, it is not surprising that the surname Varela Mendes is found in both countries. However, the high incidence of the surname in Cape Verde suggests a significant migration pattern from Spain and Portugal to the region. The colonization of Cape Verde by the Portuguese in the 15th century likely played a role in the spread of the surname to the region. Similarly, the presence of the surname in Brazil can be attributed to the Portuguese colonization of the country in the 16th century.

In more recent times, migration patterns and globalization have further spread the surname Varela Mendes to other countries, such as France and Switzerland. The relatively low incidence of the surname in these countries suggests that it may have been brought by a small number of individuals or families who migrated from Portugal or Brazil.

Popularity and Distribution

The high incidence of the surname Varela Mendes in Cape Verde makes it one of the most recognizable surnames in the country. It is likely that many individuals with this surname can trace their ancestry back to the early Portuguese settlers in the region. In Brazil, the surname is also relatively common, reflecting the country's history of Portuguese colonization.

In France and Switzerland, the surname Varela Mendes is less common, but its presence in these countries demonstrates the global reach of Portuguese and Brazilian migration. Despite its lower incidence rate in these countries, the surname still carries cultural significance for those who bear it.

Variations and Derivatives

Like many surnames, Varela Mendes may have variations and derivatives based on regional dialects or changes over time. Variants of the surname Varela include Varella and Varelas, while variations of the surname Mendes include Mendez and Mendez.

It is not uncommon for individuals with the surname Varela Mendes to have different spellings or versions of their surname depending on the country they reside in or their family's history. These variations can add layers of complexity to genealogical research and tracing family histories.

Family Crest and Coat of Arms

It is possible that the surname Varela Mendes may have a family crest or coat of arms associated with it, as was common among noble and aristocratic families in Spain and Portugal. Family crests often feature symbols and imagery that are unique to the family and may have historical significance.

Individuals with the surname Varela Mendes who are interested in their family history may wish to research whether a family crest or coat of arms exists for their surname. This research can provide insights into the family's history and heritage.

Legacy and Cultural Significance

As one of the most common surnames in Cape Verde, the surname Varela Mendes holds significant cultural and historical significance for the country. Individuals with this surname may take pride in their ancestry and family history, which can be traced back to the early Portuguese settlers in the region.

In Brazil, the surname Varela Mendes also carries cultural importance, reflecting the country's history of colonization and migration. The presence of the surname in France and Switzerland further highlights the global impact of Portuguese and Brazilian migration and the interconnectedness of cultures.

Overall, the surname Varela Mendes is a testament to the rich history and diverse heritage of those who bear it. It serves as a connection to the past and a link to the global community of individuals with Spanish and Portuguese ancestry.

The surname Varela mendes in the globe

Globalization has meant that surnames distribute far beyond their country of origin, so that it is achievable to get African surnames in Europe or Indian surnames in Oceania. Similar happens in the case of Varela mendes, which as you're able to corroborate, it can be said it is a surname which can be found in the majority of the countries of the globe. In the same manner you can find nations in which undoubtedly the thickness of people using the surname Varela mendes is higher than in other countries.

The map of this Varela mendes surname

1. Cape Verde (38)
2. Brazil (8)
3. France (8)
4. Switzerland (1)