Sousa

Sousa is a Spanish and Portuguese surname that found its way into British surnames through historical connections between the United Kingdom and the Iberian Peninsula. It is believed to have originated in either Spain or Portugal and is derived from the Latin word "saxa," meaning "stones" or "rocks."

Origins:

The surname Sousa is common in Spanish- and Portuguese-speaking countries, particularly in regions such as Galicia in Spain and northern Portugal. Over time, individuals with the surname Sousa may have migrated to the UK for various reasons, leading to the presence of this surname within the British population.

Distribution:

In the United Kingdom, the surname Sousa is not as common as it is in Spain and Portugal, but there are individuals and families who bear this name. The Sousa surname can be found across the UK, with concentrations in areas where there are significant Portuguese or Spanish communities, such as London, Manchester, and Bristol.

Notable Individuals:

  • John Philip Sousa (1854-1932): Although not British, John Philip Sousa was an American composer and conductor known for his military and patriotic marches. His influence in the world of music has extended to the UK and beyond.

Legacy:

The presence of the Sousa surname in the UK is a testament to the rich history of cultural exchange and migration between the British Isles and the Iberian Peninsula. While perhaps not as widespread as some British surnames, the Sousa name adds to the diverse tapestry of names that form part of the nation's heritage.

There are approximately 1,395 people named Sousa in the UK. That makes it roughly the 5,687th most common surname in Britain. Around 21 in a million people in Britain are named Sousa.

Origin: Iberian

Region of origin: Europe

Country of origin: Spain

Religion of origin: Christian

Language of origin: Spanish

Typical given names associated with the surname

Male

  • Antonio
  • Carlos
  • Fernando
  • Joao
  • Jose
  • Luis
  • Manuel
  • Miguel
  • Paulo
  • Ricardo
  • Roberto
  • Rui

Female

  • Ana
  • Carla
  • Catherine
  • Celia
  • Fatima
  • Isabel
  • Joana
  • Maria
  • Rosa
  • Sandra
  • Sonia
  • Susana
  • Valerie

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