Find out how popular the first name Garang has been for the last 18 years (from 2007 to 2024) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Garang by gender

Based on the last 18 years of data, Garang is exclusively a male name.

For the most recent data in 2024, there were 6 male babies and 0 female babies born with the name Garang.

The history of the first name Garang

Garang is a name that finds its origins in the Dinka language spoken by the Dinka people of South Sudan. The name is believed to have emerged during the 18th century, although its precise origins are unclear. It is derived from the word "garang," which means "strength" or "bravery" in the Dinka language.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Garang can be found in the oral traditions and folklore of the Dinka people. It is said that Garang was the name of a legendary warrior who led his people to victory against invading tribes, earning him the moniker "Garang the Brave."

In more recent history, the name gained prominence in the late 20th century with the rise of John Garang, a renowned Sudanese rebel leader and politician. Born in 1945, Garang was the founder and leader of the Sudan People's Liberation Movement (SPLM) and its armed wing, the Sudan People's Liberation Army (SPLA). He played a pivotal role in the Second Sudanese Civil War, which lasted from 1983 to 2005, and is credited with helping to secure the eventual independence of South Sudan in 2011. Garang tragically died in a helicopter crash in 2005, just three weeks after the signing of the Comprehensive Peace Agreement that ended the civil war.

Another notable figure with the name Garang was Garang Deng, a South Sudanese politician and diplomat who served as the Minister of Petroleum and Mining in the government of South Sudan from 2011 to 2013. Deng was born in 1954 and was a member of the SPLM during the Second Sudanese Civil War.

In the realm of sports, Garang Kuol is a young Australian soccer player of South Sudanese descent who currently plays for the Newcastle United F.C. youth academy. Born in 2004, Kuol has represented Australia at various youth levels and is considered a promising talent in Australian soccer.

Additionally, Garang Majok is a South Sudanese-Australian basketball player who has played professionally in Australia's National Basketball League (NBL) and several European leagues. Born in 1989, Majok has also represented the Australian national basketball team in international competitions.

These are just a few examples of notable individuals who have borne the name Garang throughout history, each leaving their mark in various fields and contributing to the rich tapestry of the name's legacy.

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

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

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