The Evolution Of Native American Naming Traditions Through Time

A small way in which the rich heritage of indigenous Americans is represented is through naming conventions across the country. As thoughtfully outlined by She Knows, writing for Yahoo, some of the larger tribal groupings, like Cherokee, have contributed much to American naming tradition, keeping a strain of language alive – both through those children of indigenous descent, and, unfortunately, through appropriation. The way names have changed over the years gives a nod to how Native American naming traditions have evolved as a whole; today, the results are quite interesting.

Modern trends

To understand modern naming conventions, it’s helpful to look at some of the more popular modern names. Naming conventions have become more diverse over the entirety of the USA over the past few years, and this is reflected in the way children are being named using Native American tradition. Names are moving away from honoring relatives within the family tree and towards more unique options. For instance, there has been a great focus on nature in naming conventions. Flower names are becoming more popular - for instance, in classic feminine forms but also in masculine names too. Native American naming conventions provide food for thought here, such as Calfuray. The reason that these names are finding their way into more popular discourse is, according to Psychology Today, linked to a wider desire for self-enrichment and the promise that indigenous names bring in that regard.

The changing self-enrich

As explained by Psychology Today, Native American naming traditions are rooted in a sense of the changing self. Some people might change their name several times over the course of their life, while others might not change at all. In all things, these names are linked to well-being and come from nature, and are ever more popular, even if this link is not explained in all forms of media. According to Psychology Today, traditional names were often suppressed in favor of more western work-favorable alternatives. Now, they make a comeback. Chloe, Olivia, Logan and Brandon all have roots in Native American culture, and all have roots in nature. This striving for authenticity has helped indigenous people to reclaim their culture and present it proudly once again, as the country as a whole strives for a little more authenticity.

A sense of authenticity

Nowhere is this movement towards authentic naming conventions seen more than in the stepping down of racist brands by several noted companies. The change in name finally completed by Washington NFL has been touted as a potential catalyst for other changes, according to The Guardian, and it would appear that society as a whole is becoming more mindful. With these changes commonplace, it’ll become more common to see Native American children bearing traditional names using traditional conventions.

In other words, it’s good news. Native American names are making a comeback with the necessary understanding behind the tradition appearing, too. Tradition will once again be the hallmark of names, and that’s a good thing for all involved.

By Kylee Carter