Find out how popular the first name Okema has been for the last 5 years (from 1975 to 1979) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Okema by gender

Based on the last 5 years of data, Okema is exclusively a female name.

For the most recent data in 1979, there were 7 female babies and 0 male babies born with the name Okema.

The history of the first name Okema

The name Okema has its origins in the Native American Algonquian languages, spoken by various tribes and nations across much of eastern North America. It is believed to have been derived from the Algonquian word "oki," which means "principal" or "leader," and "ma," meaning "the." Thus, Okema can be interpreted as "the principal" or "the leader."

In the 17th century, during the early years of European colonization, the name Okema was recorded as being used by prominent leaders and chiefs among various Algonquian tribes. One notable example is Okematen, a sachem (chief) of the Wampanoag tribe who lived in the early 1600s and played a role in the events leading up to the First Thanksgiving.

The name Okema also appears in some historical accounts and records from the 18th and 19th centuries, often in reference to Native American leaders and negotiators who interacted with European settlers and colonial authorities. For instance, Okemah, a Creek leader, was involved in negotiations with the United States government in the early 1800s.

One of the earliest recorded individuals with the name Okema was Okemah Nundey, a prominent Creek leader who lived in the late 18th century and was known for his oratorical skills and advocacy for his people's rights.

Another notable figure was Okemah Harjo, a Creek warrior and leader who fought against the United States during the Creek War of 1813-1814. He was a key figure in the Red Stick resistance movement and played a significant role in the Battle of Horseshoe Bend in 1814.

In the 19th century, Okemah Yahola was a leader of the Creek Nation who led a faction of his people in opposition to the removal policies of the United States government. He was eventually forced to relocate to Oklahoma during the Trail of Tears in the 1830s.

While the name Okema has its roots in Native American cultures, it has also been adopted and used by non-Native individuals over time, particularly in regions with significant Native American populations or historical connections.

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

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

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