61 Boy Names from the Early 20th Century

They evoke the era of the Kaiser, new beginnings, and family albums: Boy names from the early 20th century are making a comeback. Between tradition and new trends, names emerged that feel surprisingly fresh today. We present 61 first names for boys that gained popularity back then and continue to enchant parents today.

In this multifaceted era, both classic and modern influences were observed in naming. Discover how names from various cultures became popular and why they still fascinate today.

Alexander

Alexander, a name with ancient Greek roots, means “the defender of men” or “the protector.” In the early 20th century, it symbolized strength and protection. Famous figures like Alexander the Great made this name known worldwide.

Alfons

The name Alfons has Latin and Visigothic roots and radiates determination and courage. It was chosen by many parents during this time who valued traditional values.

Alois

Alois is a name with Greek and Latin influences. This name was particularly popular among families who wanted to name their sons after historical role models.

Andre

Andre, derived from the ancient Greek Andreas, means “the brave” or “the manly.” The name was a symbol of courage and masculinity in a time when such traits were highly regarded.

Andreas

The name Andreas, also of ancient Greek origin, means “the brave.” It further exemplifies how classical values were highlighted through naming choices.

Anton

Anton has its roots in ancient Greek and Latin and means “the valuable.” It was among the names associated with enlightenment and progress.

Armin

Armin, a name with Germanic roots, is often associated with the meaning “warrior.” It was frequently chosen to symbolize strength and power and was particularly popular in Germany.

Arnold

Arnold means “the ruling eagle” and comes from Old High German. This name was favored by parents who desired a strong and successful son.

Bernard

The name Bernard has Old High German roots and means “the bear strong.” It symbolized strength and respect in a time when these values were highly esteemed.

Charles

Charles, with influences from Old High German, English, and French, means “the free one.” It was particularly popular in urban areas due to its international sound.

Christian

Christian, a name with ancient Greek and biblical roots, means “the anointed one” or “follower of Christ.” It reflected the religious values of the time and was widespread in Europe.

Daniel

Daniel, a Hebrew name, means “God is my judge.” This name was especially popular among families with strong religious beliefs.

Edgar

Edgar, an Old English name, means “the owner of the spear.” It symbolized protection and defense and was often given in warrior families.

Eduard

Eduard comes from Old English and means “the guardian of wealth.” It expressed prosperity and protection in a rapidly changing world.

Edwin

The name Edwin means “the wealthy friend” and has Old English roots. It expressed friendship and prosperity.

Erhard

Erhard, an Old High German name, means “the respected one.” During this time, it was important for a name to embody honor and respect.

Eugen

Eugen, with ancient Greek roots, means “the well-born.” It was often chosen to emphasize noble heritage.

Felix

Felix, a Latin name, means “the happy one.” It reflected the desire for happiness and success and was very popular.

Ferdinand

The name Ferdinand has Gothic roots and means “the bold protector.” Parents chose this name to emphasize courage and protection.

Fred

Fred comes from Old German and means “the peace.” In a turbulent time, it was often chosen to symbolize the desire for peace.

Fredy

Fredy, a variant of Fred, means “the ruler of peace.” This name was a symbol of leadership and balance.

Fridolin

Fridolin, also from Old German, means “the ruler of peace.” It was particularly favored by parents who desired harmony.

Gottfried

The name Gottfried means “the divine peace.” In a time of change, faith was an important aspect of naming.

Gottlieb

Gottlieb, with Old High German and Germanic influences, means “the beloved of God.” It was very popular among families with strong faith.

Guido

Guido, a name with Latin roots, was often chosen in rural areas.

Günter

Günter means “the one fighting in the army” and comes from Old High German. It was a popular name among warrior families.

Hansjörg

Hansjörg combines ancient Greek and Hebrew roots and means “God is gracious” and “the farmer.” The name expressed gratitude and work ethic.

Hubert

Hubert, an Old High German name, means “the one shining through his intellect.” It was often chosen by educated families.

Joseph

Joseph, with Hebrew and biblical origins, means “God may add.” This name was particularly widespread in religious families.

Julius

Julius has Latin roots and means “the one dedicated to Jupiter.” It was a sign of nobility and strength.

Jörg

Jörg, an ancient Greek name, means “the farmer.” It was often chosen in rural areas to show a connection to the land.

Kaspar

Kaspar, with ancient Persian and biblical roots, means “the treasurer.” It was a popular name among trading families.

Konrad

Konrad means “the bold advisor” and has Old High German roots. Parents who valued wisdom often chose this name.

Leo

Leo, a Latin name, means “the lion.” It was popular among families who wanted to emphasize courage and strength.

Lorenz

Lorenz comes from Old German and Latin and means “the laurel-crowned.” It was a symbol of victory and success.

Louis

Louis, with Old High German and French influences, means “the famous warrior.” The name was widespread in Europe.

Marcel

Marcel has Latin roots and means “the one dedicated to Mars.” It was a sign of strength and fighting spirit.

Mario

Mario, with Latin and Roman origins, means “the one descended from the Maris.” It was particularly popular in Italy.

Markus

Markus means “the one dedicated to Mars” and has Latin roots. The name was often chosen by families who valued a warrior-like and determined character.

Martin

The name Martin comes from Latin and means “son of Mars.” It expressed fighting spirit and assertiveness.

Meinrad

Meinrad means “the powerful advisor” and has Old High German roots. It was popular among families who valued strength and wisdom.

Moritz

Moritz has ancient Greek and Latin roots and means “the dark-skinned one.” It was a sign of exoticism and independence.

Niklaus

Niklaus, with ancient Greek and Swiss influences, means “victory of the people.” It was particularly popular in Switzerland.

Norbert

The name Norbert means “the one shining in the north” and has Old High German roots. It was especially favored by families in northern Germany.

Oswald

Oswald, a name with Old English and Old High German roots, means “the one ruling through God.” It was often chosen by religious families.

Othmar

Othmar means “the one shining through inheritance” and comes from Old High German. It was often chosen in wealthy families.

Pierre

Pierre is a French name with ancient Greek roots and means “the rock.” It was very popular in French-speaking regions.

Pius

Pius, a Latin name, means “the pious one.” It was often chosen by families with strong religious ties.

Raymond

Raymond has Old High German roots and means “the advising protector.” It was a sign of wisdom and protection.

Reinhard

Reinhard means “the strong advisor” and comes from Old High German. It was popular among families who valued strength and intelligence.

Rene

Rene is a Latin name and means “the reborn one.” It was often chosen by families who wanted to symbolize renewal and new beginnings.

Roger

Roger means “the glorious spear bearer” and has Old High German roots. The name expressed bravery and glory.

Roman

Roman, a Latin name, means “the citizen of Rome.” It was particularly popular among families who valued a connection to Roman history.

Samuel

Samuel, with Hebrew and biblical origins, means “the one heard by God.” This name was especially widespread in religious families.

Stefan

Stefan means “the crowned one” and comes from ancient Greek. It was a symbol of success and recognition.

Theodor

Theodor, an ancient Greek name, means “gift of God.” It expressed gratitude and blessing.

Thomas

Thomas, with ancient Aramaic and biblical roots, means “the twin.” It was a common name in religious and traditional families.

Ulrich

Ulrich means “the rich, powerful heir” and has Old High German roots. It was popular among families who wanted to emphasize wealth and power.

Viktor

Viktor, a Latin name, means “the victor.” It was an expression of success and assertiveness.

Willy

Willy, with Old German and English influences, means “the strong-willed protector.” The name was often chosen by families who valued determination.

Xaver

Xaver has Basque and German roots and means “the new house.” It was often chosen in Catholic families and remains popular today.

The names on this list reflect the diversity and change of a fascinating era. Many of these names are still popular today and carry a rich history that makes them even more valuable.