FLAHERTY
Flaherty
Flaherty is a surname of Irish origin, believed to be derived from the Irish Gaelic "Ó Flathartaigh", meaning "descendant of Flaitheartach". The name Flaherty is prevalent in Ireland, particularly in areas like County Galway, County Mayo, and County Clare.
Origins
The Flaherty surname has ancient roots in Ireland, tracing back to the powerful O'Flaherty sept who were known for their leadership in western Ireland. They held lands in Connemara and were said to be descended from the legendary High King Lugaid Mac Con. The O'Flaherty clan played a significant role in the history and politics of Ireland, especially in the province of Connacht.
Distribution
The surname Flaherty is commonly found in Ireland, particularly in the western regions where the O'Flaherty clan was historically influential. Over the years, many individuals bearing the surname Flaherty have emigrated from Ireland to countries such as the United States, Canada, Australia, and the United Kingdom, spreading the name across the globe.
Notable Individuals
- Robert Flaherty (1884-1951): A pioneering filmmaker known for his groundbreaking documentary work, including "Nanook of the North."
- Michael John Flaherty (b. 1970): A British Labour Party politician who served as the Mayor of Lambeth in London.
- Bernard Flaherty (1910-1980): A British Olympic sprinter who competed in the 1936 Berlin Games.
Variations
The Flaherty surname has variations including O'Flaherty, Flaverty, and Flahertie. These variations reflect different ways the name has been Anglicised or altered over time.
In conclusion, the surname Flaherty is deeply rooted in Irish history and has become widespread globally due to Irish migration. It continues to be a name of importance and pride for many individuals of Irish descent.
There are approximately 5,003 people named Flaherty in the UK. That makes it roughly the 1,885th most common surname in Britain. Around 77 in a million people in Britain are named Flaherty.
Origin: Celtic
Region of origin: British Isles
Country of origin: Ireland
Religion of origin: Christian
Language of origin: Gaelic
Typical given names associated with the surname
Male
- Anthony
- David
- James
- John
- Martin
- Michael
- Patrick
- Paul
- Peter
- Thomas
Female
- Ann
- Elizabeth
- Emma
- Kathleen
- Lisa
- Margaret
- Mary
- Maureen
- Patricia
- Sarah
- Susan
Similar and related surnames
Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.