Georgian Last names

Georgian last names bear a significant historical weight, reflecting the country's diverse influences and societal structures. From patronymics to occupational and geographical identifiers, these surnames denote familial legacies and societal roles. In both Georgia and the United States, Georgian last names serve as cultural markers, preserving traditions and connecting diaspora communities to their heritage.

Traditions and procedures of last name changes in georgian

1. Naming Customs:

Georgian naming customs traditionally place the surname before the given name. However, in informal settings, individuals might be referred to by their first name.

2. Marriage and Last Names:

In Georgia, it is customary for a woman to take her husband's surname upon marriage. This practice reflects the patriarchal nature of Georgian society.

3. Retention of Maiden Name:

While it's common for women to adopt their husband's surname, some may choose to retain their maiden name for professional or personal reasons. However, this is less common in traditional Georgian culture.

4. Children's Last Names:

Children in Georgia typically take the father's surname. This patrilineal naming convention reinforces the importance of family lineage and heritage.

5. Legal Procedures for Name Changes:

Changing one's last name in Georgia involves a legal process. This typically requires submitting an application to the relevant government authorities along with supporting documentation, such as a marriage certificate or court order.

6. Social Implications:

Changing one's last name, whether due to marriage or other reasons, can have social implications in Georgian society. It may affect how individuals are perceived within their communities and families.

7. Modern Trends:

In recent years, there has been a growing trend towards women retaining their maiden names after marriage, particularly in urban areas and among younger generations. This reflects changing attitudes towards gender equality and personal identity.

Common prefixes or suffixes in georgian last names & their meaning

"აბ" (ab)

meaning "son of"

"ან" (an)

meaning "from"

"იძე" (idze)

meaning "son of"

"ული" (uli)

meaning "of"

"შილაშვილი" (shilashvili)

meaning "child of"

"ეინ" (ein)

meaning "from"

"ია" (ia)

meaning "son of"

"ური" (uri)

meaning "of"

Migration patterns

Georgian migration patterns have significantly impacted the distribution of last names both within Georgia and abroad. Historically, Georgia has experienced waves of emigration due to political unrest, economic hardships, and conflict. Many Georgians migrated to neighboring countries such as Russia, Turkey, and Iran, as well as to European countries like Germany, Greece, and France. Additionally, Georgian communities can be found in North America, particularly in the United States and Canada.

These migration patterns have influenced the distribution of Georgian last names. For example, surnames like "Kiknadze" or "Kakabadze" are more prevalent in Russia, where significant Georgian communities reside. Similarly, names like "Gogoladze" or "Gogolashvili" may be found in Turkey and Iran, reflecting historical migrations to these regions.

In the United States, Georgian last names are scattered across the country, with concentrations in areas with larger immigrant populations such as New York City, Los Angeles, and Chicago. However, due to assimilation and intermarriage, the distribution of Georgian last names in the U.S. is less concentrated compared to regions with significant Georgian populations.

Overall, migration has played a pivotal role in shaping the geographic distribution of Georgian last names, with concentrations in regions where Georgian communities have settled over time.

georgian migration to the USA

Georgian migration to the USA has been shaped by various historical, political, and economic factors, leading to distinct waves of immigration. Here's a brief overview of the major periods of Georgian migration to the USA:

1. Late 19th and Early 20th Centuries:

During this period, many Georgians fled political unrest and economic hardship in the Russian Empire, particularly following the Russo-Turkish War and the Russian Revolution of 1905. Significant numbers settled in urban centers like New York City and Chicago, seeking better economic opportunities and escaping persecution.

2. Post-World War II Era:

Following World War II and the subsequent Soviet occupation of Georgia, a wave of Georgian immigrants arrived in the USA. Many of these individuals were intellectuals, artists, and professionals who opposed Soviet rule and sought political asylum in the United States. This period saw the establishment of Georgian communities in cities like Washington, D.C., and San Francisco.

3. Late 20th and Early 21st Centuries:

The collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991 led to increased migration from Georgia to the USA. Economic instability, civil unrest, and the desire for better living conditions prompted many Georgians to seek opportunities abroad. This period also witnessed the arrival of students, skilled workers, and entrepreneurs, contributing to the diversity of the Georgian diaspora in the United States.