Summary

The surname William originates from England and is of Old French origin. It is derived from the given name William, which means 'resolute protector'. The name has a rich history and has spread across the world due to migration and colonization.
There are
13373
Williams in the USA
William is the
2694th
most common last name in the USA

Historical figures and celebrities called William

WilliamShakespeare

William Shakespeare was an English playwright, poet, and actor, widely regarded as the greatest writer in the English language and the world's greatest dramatist.

WilliamWallace

William Wallace was a Scottish knight who led a resistance against the English occupation of Scotland during the Wars of Scottish Independence.

Williamthe

William the Conqueror was the first Norman King of England, reigning from 1066 until his death in 1087. He successfully invaded England, becoming its first Norman monarch.

WilliamWordsworth

William Wordsworth was an English poet who, along with Samuel Taylor Coleridge, helped launch the Romantic Age in English literature with the publication of 'Lyrical Ballads'.

WilliamHoward

William Howard Taft was the 27th President of the United States, serving from 1909 to 1913. He is also known for becoming the 10th Chief Justice of the United States.

WilliamWilberforce

William Wilberforce was a British politician, philanthropist, and leader of the movement to abolish the slave trade. He played a key role in the passing of the Slave Trade Act of 1807.

WilliamHenry

William Henry Harrison was the 9th President of the United States, serving only 32 days in office before his death. He was the first president to die in office.

WilliamMcKinley

William McKinley was the 25th President of the United States, serving from 1897 until his assassination in 1901. He led the nation during the Spanish-American War.

WilliamPenn

William Penn was an English Quaker and founder of the colony of Pennsylvania. He played a crucial role in the establishment of religious freedom and democratic principles in the American colonies.

Williamthe

William the Silent, also known as William of Orange, was the main leader of the Dutch Revolt against Spanish rule that set off the Eighty Years' War and resulted in the independence of the Netherlands.

William Genealogy

OriginsThe name 'William' is of Germanic origin, derived from the elements 'wil' meaning 'will, desire' and 'helm' meaning 'helmet, protection.' It was brought to England by the Normans and became a popular given name.
Geographic DistributionThe name 'William' is widely distributed across English-speaking countries, with a significant presence in the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.
VariationsVariations of the name 'William' include 'Will', 'Bill', 'Billy', 'Liam', 'Wilhelm', and 'Guillaume' (French variant).
Migration and ImmigrationPeople with the name 'William' have migrated and immigrated to various countries throughout history, particularly during times of war, colonization, and economic opportunities.