Find out how popular the first name Baldwin has been for the last 45 years (from 1979 to 2023) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Baldwin by gender

Based on the last 45 years of data, Baldwin is exclusively a male name.

For the most recent data in 2023, there were 6 male babies and 0 female babies born with the name Baldwin.

The history of the first name Baldwin

The given name Baldwin is derived from the Germanic elements "bald", meaning "bold" or "brave", and "win", meaning "friend". It originated in the Middle Ages, around the 9th or 10th century, and was initially popular among the Frankish and Norman nobility in Europe.

One of the earliest recorded uses of the name Baldwin can be found in the 9th century, referring to Baldwin I, also known as Baldwin Iron Arm, who was the first Count of Flanders from 862 to 879 AD. He played a significant role in defending the region against Viking raids.

Another notable figure with the name Baldwin was Baldwin I of Jerusalem, who was one of the leaders of the First Crusade and became the first Latin King of Jerusalem in 1100 AD. He ruled the Kingdom of Jerusalem from 1100 to 1118 AD.

In the 13th century, Baldwin II, also known as Baldwin of Courtenay, was the last emperor of the Latin Empire of Constantinople, reigning from 1228 to 1261 AD. He was a prominent figure during the Fourth Crusade and the subsequent establishment of the Latin Empire in the eastern Mediterranean.

Moving forward in history, Baldwin I, also known as Baldwin the Leper King, was the fourth ruler of the Kingdom of Jerusalem from 1174 to 1185 AD. Despite being afflicted with leprosy, he was a capable military leader and played a crucial role in defending the kingdom against Saladin's forces.

Another notable figure with the name Baldwin was Baldwin IV, also known as Baldwin the Leper or the Leper King of Jerusalem, who ruled the Kingdom of Jerusalem from 1174 to 1185 AD. Despite his debilitating illness, he was a skilled military strategist and fought bravely against the Muslim forces led by Saladin.

These are just a few examples of notable historical figures who bore the name Baldwin, reflecting its long-standing association with bravery, nobility, and military prowess, particularly during the Middle Ages and the Crusades.

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 Baldwin was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

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

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