RASSAM
Rassam
Overview: Rassam is a surname of Assyrian origin, predominantly found in the United Kingdom. The name is derived from the Assyrian Aramaic word "Ras Shamra," which means 'head of the sun.' The Rassam family has a distinguished history and has made notable contributions to various fields.
History: The Rassam surname is associated with Sir Austen Henry Layard and Hormuzd Rassam, two prominent figures in the field of archaeology in the 19th century. Sir Austen Henry Layard is renowned for his excavation and discovery of the ancient Assyrian city of Nineveh, while Hormuzd Rassam, his assistant, made significant contributions to the deciphering of cuneiform inscriptions.
Notable Individuals:
- Hormuzd Rassam (1826–1910): A distinguished archaeologist who worked closely with Layard on several excavations in Mesopotamia. Rassam's expertise in deciphering cuneiform script greatly enhanced our understanding of ancient Mesopotamian civilizations.
- Harold Rassam (b. 1950): A renowned British journalist and author known for his insightful commentary on political and social issues. Rassam's work has earned him widespread recognition and respect in the field of journalism.
Legacy: The Rassam name continues to be associated with excellence in various fields, including archaeology, journalism, and academia. The contributions of individuals bearing the Rassam surname have significantly enriched British culture and knowledge of ancient civilisations.
There are approximately 73 people named Rassam in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around one in a million people in Britain are named Rassam.