Summary

The surname Harper is of English origin and is derived from the occupational name for someone who played a harp or made harps. It has historical associations with musicians and is also seen as a patronymic surname in Scotland.
There are
124461
Harpers in the USA
Harper is the
245th
most common last name in the USA

Historical figures and celebrities called Harper

HarperLee

Harper Lee was an American novelist best known for her book 'To Kill a Mockingbird,' which won the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction in 1961. The novel explores themes of racial injustice and the loss of innocence in the American Deep South.

BenHarper

Ben Harper is an American musician, singer-songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist known for his blend of folk, blues, and rock music. He has released numerous critically acclaimed albums and won several Grammy Awards.

HarperBeckham

Harper Beckham is the daughter of retired English professional footballer David Beckham and fashion designer Victoria Beckham. She has gained media attention since birth and often accompanies her parents to public events.

CharleyHarper

Charley Harper was an American artist known for his distinctive illustrations of wildlife and nature. His minimalist style and use of geometric shapes earned him recognition and acclaim.

FrancesEllen

Frances Ellen Watkins Harper was an African-American abolitionist, suffragist, poet, and author. She was known for her powerful writing and speeches advocating for social justice and women's rights.

SydneyHarper

Sydney Harper was an Australian cricketer who played for New South Wales and Australia in the early 20th century. He was known for his exceptional spin bowling skills.

ValerieHarper

Valerie Harper was an American actress best known for her role as Rhoda Morgenstern on the television sitcom 'The Mary Tyler Moore Show.' She won four Emmy Awards for her portrayal of the character.

StephenHarper

Stephen Harper is a Canadian politician who served as the 22nd Prime Minister of Canada from 2006 to 2015. During his tenure, he implemented conservative policies and focused on economic growth.

FrancesTheodora

Frances Theodora Harper was an African-American poet and activist. She advocated for the rights of African Americans and women and published several collections of poetry.

HarperGruzins

Harper Gruzins is a young American singer who gained attention for her rendition of the national anthem at a Major League Soccer game. Her performance received mixed reviews but brought her some degree of fame.

Harper Genealogy

OriginsThe surname 'Harper' has English origins and originally referred to someone who played the harp or worked as a harpist. The name is derived from the Old English word 'hearpere,' which means 'harp player.' It was often a professional surname given to musicians who played the harp.
Geographic DistributionThe surname 'Harper' is most commonly found in the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. It is also present in other English-speaking countries to a lesser extent.
VariationsVariations of the surname 'Harper' include 'Harp,' 'Harpford,' 'Harpur,' 'Harpman,' 'Harpster,' 'Harpe,' 'Harperin,' 'Harbury,' and 'Harps.'
Migration and ImmigrationThe name 'Harper' has been carried by immigrants from the British Isles to various countries, especially during periods of colonization and migration. Many people with the surname migrated to the United States and Canada in search of better opportunities.