There's something so special about a baby name that has a story behind it. If you consider yourself a history buff, or if you're due in a patriotic month like July, you can get inspired by 50 classic baby names that come straight from American history.
The men and women who shaped the future of the United States have beautiful names that are perfect for modern babies. The men’s names make for highly traditional baby boy names, while many of the women’s names are "old-fashioned" but now very unique. Try one of these powerful patriotic baby names on for size.
Baby boy names from the American Revolution
During the American Revolution, rebellious men became the founding fathers of the United States of America. From Alexander to William, these are names that have remained popular for centuries.
- Alexander Hamilton
- Benjamin Franklin
- Elijah Isaacs
- George Washington
- Jonathan Shipley
- Nathan Hale
- Paul Revere
- Samuel Prescott
- Timothy Matlack
- William Paca
More: This printable guide is about to solve all your baby-naming squabbles
Baby girl names from American History
From famous abolitionists to the women who helped shape the earliest forms of feminism in the United States, these are true American heroes. These unique baby girl names have classic roots but have fallen in and out of popularity over the decades, making them excellent independent baby name choices.
- Abigail Adams
- Hannah Arnett
- Harriet Tubman
- Lydia Maria Child
- Martha Washington
- Mercy Otis Warren
- Molly Pitcher
- Patience Wright
- Penelope Barker
- Sojourner Truth
More: Putting myself first doesn't mean I don't love my kids
Baby boy names from famous World War II figures
During the second world war, these men of various ranks proved themselves to be heroes in the United States Armed Forces. Draw baby boy name inspiration from one of these unique baby boy names inspired by WWII soldiers. These are now uncommon names, making them perfect for parents seeking unique baby names.
- Audie Murphy
- Beauford T. Anderson
- Carlton W. Barrett
- Chester W. Nimitz
- Douglas MacArthur
- Dwight D. Eisenhower
- Ernest King
- Lucian Adams
- Omar Bradley
- Stanley Bender
Next Up: Baby girl names from influential suffragists
Baby girl names from influential suffragists
American suffragists fought to give women the right to vote. It wasn’t an easy process or a pretty process. These women offer baby girls strong, beautiful namesakes with a rich history of independence and feminism. These baby girl names are unique without being overly unusual.
- Adelina Otero-Warren
- Alice Paul
- Florence Luscomb
- Lavinia Dock
- Louisa May Alcott
- Lucy Burns
- Matilda Joslyn Gage
- Olympia Brown
- Phoebe Couzins
- Virginia Minor
More: Letter 'J' names for baby girls that are just perfect
10 more patriotic boy names and patriotic girl names
For the final ten patriotic baby names, we’ve chosen a mixed bag of boy names and girl names. These are patriotic baby names that are perfect for summer babies and parents who want to call to mind our great nation and what it stands for.
Originally published June 2013. Updated May 2016.
