Find out how popular the first name Achol has been for the last 19 years (from 2005 to 2023) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Achol by gender

Based on the last 19 years of data, Achol is exclusively a female name.

For the most recent data in 2023, there were 11 female babies and 0 male babies born with the name Achol.

The history of the first name Achol

The name Achol is believed to have its roots in the Dinka language, spoken by the Dinka people of South Sudan. The Dinka are an ethnic group with a rich cultural heritage, and their language is part of the Nilo-Saharan language family. The name Achol is thought to derive from the word "achuel," which means "blessing" or "fortunate" in the Dinka language.

The earliest known historical reference to the name Achol can be traced back to the 18th century, when it was commonly used among the Dinka people. During this time, the Dinka were predominantly pastoralists, and the name Achol was often given to children as a symbol of gratitude and hope for a prosperous future.

One of the earliest recorded individuals with the name Achol was Achol Deng, a prominent Dinka leader who lived in the late 18th century. She was known for her wisdom and diplomacy in resolving conflicts within her community. Another notable figure from the same era was Achol Garang, a respected healer and midwife who was revered for her knowledge of traditional medicine.

In the 19th century, the name Achol gained wider recognition beyond the Dinka community. Achol Malual, a renowned poet and storyteller, was born in 1835 and is celebrated for her contributions to preserving the oral traditions of her people. Her poems and stories have been passed down through generations, keeping the Dinka cultural heritage alive.

During the 20th century, the name Achol continued to be popular among the Dinka people, and several individuals bearing this name made significant contributions to various fields. Achol Yor, born in 1920, was a trailblazing educator who worked tirelessly to promote literacy and education in South Sudan. Her efforts were instrumental in establishing some of the first schools in the region.

Another notable figure was Achol Atem, a prominent human rights activist who fought for the rights of women and children in South Sudan. Born in 1945, she dedicated her life to advocating for peace, justice, and equality, and her legacy continues to inspire many in the region.

While the name Achol has its roots in the Dinka culture of South Sudan, it has also gained recognition in other parts of the world, particularly among communities with ties to the region. The name carries a sense of cultural pride, resilience, and a connection to the rich heritage of the Dinka people.

Data source

The first name data used on this page comes from the Social Security Administration (SSA). They've been collecting data on baby names since 1880.

The history and meaning of the name Achol was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

If you have a correction or suggestion to improve the history of Achol, please contact us.

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