Meaning and History of the Name Roland
The name Roland has been around for millenniums, and it goes all the way back to the medieval eras of Germany and France. This strong and masculine name relates to not only land, but fame and the meaning of Roland is “renowned land” and “of land.”
Perhaps, the first person to bring recognition to this name was the historical figure “Roland” who fought under the leadership of Charlemagne, in Medieval Europe, during the eight century He was later deemed a hero and immortalized in what is considered the oldest poemin French literature, “The Song of Roland.”
This name was brought to England in the eleventh century, by the Norman French, shortly after 1066, proceeding the Norman Conquest. Although, over the past centuries, the popularity of Roland has declined, it is still a common name especially in Europe and
America. At the present time, this refined and handsome name enjoys its’ greatest popularity in Hungary, where it’s ranked number forty two on their list!
Popularity
Roland was not in the 100 most popular baby names in 2014, according to the Office of National Statistics.
Famous People with Called Roland
The epic and legendary leader, Roland, was not the only person to enjoy fame, there has been other Roland’s who are also well known. In the French literature world, Roland Barthes,was a well respected philosopher and theorist. Roland Emmerich is a famous German film director while Roland Joffé is a famous English one.
Although recently retired, Roland “Champ” Bailey, was a American football cornerback for the Denver Broncos. His NFL career not only span fifteen seasons, but twelve Pro Bowls also. In the music industry, the british musician Roland Orzabal, is best known for his vocals in the group “Tears for Fears.”
These are only a few of the famous Roland’s worldwide but rather famous or not,
the name Roland is a traditional and classic name which has always been associated
with masculinity.
Useful Resources
- Discover the meaning and popularity of other English boys names.