Find out how popular the first name Diarra has been for the last 50 years (from 1975 to 2024) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Diarra by gender

Based on the last 50 years of data, Diarra is more commonly used as a female name, with approximately 88% of people named Diarra being female.

For the most recent data in 2024, there were 10 female babies and 0 male babies born with the name Diarra.

The history of the first name Diarra

The name Diarra has its origins in the Bambara language, which is spoken by the Bambara people of Mali in West Africa. The name is believed to have originated in the 13th century during the era of the Mali Empire, one of the wealthiest and most powerful empires in African history.

The name Diarra is derived from the Bambara word "diarran," which means "strength" or "power." It was a common name given to boys born into the noble and warrior classes of the Bambara society, as it symbolized the qualities of bravery, resilience, and leadership that were highly valued in their culture.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Diarra can be found in the epic oral traditions of the Bambara people, particularly in the tales of the legendary hero Sundiata Keita, who founded the Mali Empire in the early 13th century. Sundiata's sister, Diarra, played a significant role in his rise to power and was respected for her wisdom and courage.

Throughout the centuries, the name Diarra has been borne by several notable figures in West African history. One such individual was Diarra Kanté (c. 1710-1758), a renowned military leader and advisor to the Segu Bambara Empire in present-day Mali and Guinea. He was renowned for his strategic brilliance and played a crucial role in the expansion of the empire.

Another notable bearer of the name was Diarra Traoré (1892-1942), a Malian diplomat and politician who served as the first President of the French Sudanese Union, a political organization that advocated for the rights of the people in French West Africa during the colonial era.

In the realm of literature, the name Diarra is associated with the acclaimed Malian writer Diarra Kéïta (1925-2021), whose novels and short stories explored themes of tradition, identity, and the challenges faced by African societies in the post-colonial era. His works, including "The Interpreter" and "The Guardian of the Word," were widely celebrated and translated into several languages.

The name Diarra has also been carried by prominent figures in other fields, such as Diarra Kiliba Coulibaly (1962-), a Malian economist and former Minister of Finance, and Diarra Karim (1953-), a renowned Malian architect known for his innovative designs that blend traditional and modern elements.

While the name Diarra has its roots in the Bambara culture, it has transcended its origins and is now used by families across West Africa and in the African diaspora worldwide, serving as a testament to the rich cultural heritage and enduring legacy of the Bambara 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 Diarra was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

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

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