Howdy. My Name is John Smith

When you are blessed with a name like Giovanni Rodriguez, you are forever burdened with the responsibility of explaining your family history every time you meet someone new.  A while back, I used to say that "Giovanni Rodriguez" is really "John Smith."  Giovanni translates to "John."  And "Rodriguez" ... well, it's not exactly Smith, but it's such a common surname that it might as well be Smith.  That argument got a big boost today in the New York Times. Sam Roberts writes:

Step aside Moore and Taylor. Welcome Garcia and Rodriguez.

Smith remains the most common surname in the United States, according to a new analysis released yesterday by the Census Bureau. But for the first time, two Hispanic surnames — Garcia and Rodriguez — are among the top 10 most common in the nation, and Martinez nearly edged out Wilson for 10th place.

The number of Hispanics living in the United States grew by 58 percent in the 1990s to nearly 13 percent of the total population, and cracking the list of top 10 names suggests just how pervasively the Latino migration has permeated everyday American culture.

Garcia moved to No. 8 in 2000, up from No. 18, and Rodriguez jumped to No. 9 from 22nd place. The number of Hispanic surnames among the top 25 doubled, to 6.

Give the Rodriguez clan ten years or so.  I am sure we'll be near the top of this list.  But looks like Garcia will give us a run for our money. ¡Ay Senor Amado!

Comments

[Beverly Higgins]

I can recall as a kid and young adult being embarassed to be a Rodriguez. It has to do with being raised in predominently white areas. As I grew older I find honor in my maiden name. Since then I have added the name Higgins to my surname but I would like to add that I raised a Rodriguez male to pass on the name. You don't have to be a man to pass on the name. I was a single mother and I opted to give him my name. He wears it with pride. Following in his grandpas footprints. He will make make it proud. Sincerely Beverly Higgins de Rodriguez

[Yvette Howard]

I have coworkers that have called me Miss Martinez, Miss Garcia or whatever it is all the same"...my reply, it is not all the same, Mr. or Mrs. Smith, I am proud of the person I am and it is Miss Rodriguez.

Honestly, Yvette Rodriguez

[jen_chan, writer MemberSpeed.com]

It's definitely a sign of changing times. The United States is not merely dominated by those Smiths anymore. Aside from Hispanics, there are also African-Americans and Asians. Some big brands are actually altering their marketing strategies to target some of the other races. Tapping into these markets will mean additional income.

[Brian Anderson]

I thought your name was distinctive and rich sounding with the influence of two cultures. Comparatively speaking, my name is rather vanilla. But that's ok, I judge people on their personalities, talents, and insights....

[Jordan 5]

Hello, Nice to meet you and reading you article, You article really nice. I am a girl come from China, I am a sport shoes lover, But the Jordan shoes is my best lover. When I was young my father bought a Jordan shoes to me, From that time,What I wear is Jordan.