Destined for Greatness

Some people believe names can manifest destiny, and depending on the name your child has, that is the kind of life they will attract and live out. With this in mind, most people choose names with sweet and heartfelt meaning, while others prefer to name their kids after the greats.

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1. Alexander

Considered one of the greatest conquerors in the world with an expansive empire, Alexander the Great lived from 356 to 323 BC and accomplished a lot in that time. A King of Macedonia, naming your child Alexander gives them a slice of that royal and powerful legacy.

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2. Cleo

If you are a fan of royals with expansive empires, consider none other than Cleopatra. One of the most iconic women in all of history, she lived from 69 to 30 BC and was the last active ruler of the Ptolemaic Kingdom. She was also known for her diplomatic intelligence and ability to craft powerful alliances.

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3. Leonardo

Leonardo da Vinci is considered one of the most brilliant inventors of all time and is the quintessential Renaissance man: meaning he’s good at a whole lot of things. A talented artist, scientist, and engineer, anyone with this name is bound to go on to do great things.

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4. Mona

While Mona is not the name of a significant historical figure, this name takes inspiration from Leonardo da Vinci’s most important masterpiece, the Mona Lisa. With a name like Mona, it’s clear that this girl is bound to be an inspiration and muse to all.

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5. Abe

A sensible name through and through, Abe is short for Abraham. Religious connotation aside, Abraham is also the name of the most influential American president, who was famous for leading the country through civil war and abolishing slavery.

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6. Joan

When it comes to fighting for freedom, Joan of Arc is at the forefront symbolizing bravery and faith. Joan of Arc was a peasant girl that led the French army and will be the perfect inspiration for your own little warrior.

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7. Luther

Named after the iconic Martin Luther King Jr., this kid is bound to stand for all things right and inspirational. Not only was Martin Luther known for his civil rights movement leadership, but his dedication to justice and equality are awe-inspiring.

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8. Amelia

When it comes to aviation exploration, Amelia Earhart set the standard. She was the first woman to fly solo across the Atlantic Ocean. Her determination and skill were a symbol of courage, and this is the perfect name for your own little jetset explorer.

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9. Winston

Named after the inspirational Winston Churchill, this British Prime Minister was known for leading the U.K. through World War II and giving powerful speech after another. This name is bound to turn your little boy into a determined little leader.

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10. Frida

Frida Kahlo was a talented and exceptional Mexican artist known for her imaginative and stunning self-portraits. Through her art, she explored ideas of culture, identity, and pain, and is considered a creative icon.

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11. Nelson

This name takes inspiration from Nelson Mandela, who lived from 1918 to 2013 and led anti-apartheid revolutionary sentiments in South Africa. Despite being incarcerated for his efforts, he would rise from the ashes and become South Africa’s first Black president. This is the perfect name for your own little leader fighting for justice.

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12. Catherine

This name is based on the powerful Empress of Russia, who in her reign was able to modernize the government, give back to the people, and expand the empire. A visionary above all, Catherine set the bar for what women could do, and you can set your daughter up to follow in her footsteps.

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13. Nikola

Nikola Tesla is considered the father of electricity and has gone on to invent the basis for many modern day items. If you want your son to be inventive and creative, consider naming him after this eccentric genius.

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14. Malala

A popular name in South Asian countries, Malala made headlines when as a young girl she fought for a right to education. She stood up against grown men demanding her education and almost paid the ultimate price. Her bravery and desire to learn are characteristics any parent would want to impart.

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15. Florence

Florence Nightingale is who we have to thank for modern nursing as we know it. She lived from 1820 to 1910 and worked meticulously to improve healthcare. Naming your daughter after her will impart compassion and the smarts needed to start a system of her own.

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16. Hamilton

After the popularity of the play, it’s clear to see what Alexander Hamilton did for his country. As the first Secretary of the Treasury, he secured the U.S. financial system and fought for his country’s independence. This is a great name for your own little ambitious leader.

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17. Harriet

Harriet Tubman lived from 1822 to 1912 and after escaping slavery, she turned back to help those left behind. She used the Underground Railroad system to lead hundreds to freedom and is an innate symbol of bravery, freedom, and selflessness.

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18. Arthur

Considered the gallant king of Britain, King Arthur had knights at his round table and solidified ideals of chivalry. If you want to throw in ideas of fantasy and honor, this is a perfect name for your prince.

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19. Hypatia

Hypatia was a stunning Greek philosopher, mathematician, and astronomer. More impressively, she was one of the first female scholars and proves that intellect and wisdom aren’t reserved for one gender.

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20. Neil

Coming to more modern times, Neil Armstrong was the first man to walk on the moon, symbolizing the sheer idea of exploration and the pioneering spirit. If you want your own kid to reach for the stars and pursue new experiences, this might be the perfect name.

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