Benton is a unique and distinctive given name of American origin. It is derived from an English surname that was originally given to someone who lived near a prominent bend in a river or a bay.
The name Benton has a rich history and several notable figures have borne this name. The most famous bearer of the name is perhaps Thomas Hart Benton, who served as a Senator from Missouri from 1821 to 1851. He was known for his support of states' rights and his opposition to the expansion of slavery.
Another notable figure with the name Benton is William S. Benton, who was a newspaper publisher, diplomat, and politician. He served as the United States Ambassador to China from 1946 to 1950 and later became the publisher of the Encyclopedia Britannica.
In literature, the name Benton has been used by several authors, most notably by Truman Capote in his novella "Breakfast at Tiffany's," where one of the main characters is named José Benton.
Today, Benton remains a relatively uncommon given name, but it continues to be associated with strength, determination, and independence, much like its historical figures. It is also often associated with nature and the outdoors due to its connection to bodies of water.
Overall, Benton is a distinctive and memorable name that carries a rich history and several notable bearers. Whether you're looking for a unique name for your child or simply interested in learning more about this fascinating name, Benton is certainly one worth considering.
The name Benton has been a consistent presence in the United States since at least 1880, with a total of 10,159 births recorded over the years. The popularity of the name has varied greatly over time, with some peaks and valleys.
From 1880 to 1932, the number of annual births with the name Benton fluctuated between 5 and 77, with no clear upward or downward trend. However, beginning in 1933, there was a significant decrease in the number of babies named Benton, with fewer than 60 births recorded each year until 1942.
Interestingly, starting in 1942, the popularity of the name Benton began to rise again, with over 70 births recorded in that year alone. This trend continued throughout the 1950s and 1960s, reaching a peak of 90 births in 1963.
However, after 1964, the popularity of the name Benton began to decline once again, with fewer than 60 births recorded each year until 1982. From 1983 onwards, there has been a consistent increase in the number of babies named Benton, with over 200 births recorded annually since 2011.
In recent years, the name Benton has reached new heights of popularity, with a record-breaking 277 births recorded in 2016. While the popularity of the name has varied greatly over time, it is clear that Benton remains a beloved and enduring choice for parents in the United States.
Despite fluctuations in popularity, the name Benton continues to be chosen by parents year after year, indicating its enduring appeal and timelessness. Whether you are considering naming your child Benton or simply appreciate unique and historic names, this information about the popularity of Benton over time may prove interesting and informative.