The 1970s have a certain reputation for being free-spirited, but the most popular baby names of the time were actually quite traditional. Many were taken straight from the Bible or from the previous generation. Some are classics that have stood the test of time, while others have fallen out of favor with today’s parents. And although “Star Wars” was the hit movie of the decade, neither “Luke” nor “Leia” made the top 200.
Top Five Boys and Girls
The top five boy’s names of the 1970s were Michael, Christopher, Jason, David and James, according to the U.S. Social Security Administration. Michael, which means “Gift from God,” was by far the favorite choice. In fact, 707,351 baby boys given that name during the decade, as opposed to the second place winner, Christopher, which means “one who holds Christ in his heart.” Christopher came in at 475,413. Jennifer, which means “fair one,” was the clear winner among girls, with 581,649 baby girls given the name during the 1970’s. Amy, which means “beloved” was the second-most popular girl name, followed by Melissa, which is Greek for “bee,” Michelle, the feminine form of Michael, and Kimberly, which means “from the royal fortress meadow.”
Other Top Boy Names
John, Robert, Brian, William and Matthew round out the top ten baby boy names in the 1970s. John is a Hebrew name that means “Jehovah has shown favor.. Robert and Brian are Scottish and Celtic respectively. Robert means “famed, shining bright” and Brian means “strong, ascending.” William is German in origin and means “resolute protector.” Matthew, like Micheal, means “give from God.”
Other Top Girl Names
Lisa, Angela, Heather, Stephanie and Nicole round out the top ten baby girl’s names of the 1970s, according to the U.S. Social Security Administration. Lisa, which was the second most popular name in 1970s, but slipped down as the decade progressed, means “devoted to God.” Angela means “angel,” Heather is a wildflower, Stephanie is French in origin and means “crowned in victory,” and Nicole has a meaning of “victory of the people.”
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