Baby Names Through the Decades – A Look Back at the Hits and Misses of the Last 100 Years

Naming your baby is one of those monumental tasks every parent takes on with a mix of excitement, joy, and maybe a hint of dread. Sure, you want to pick a name that stands out – but not too much – while also hoping it won’t sound dated in a few years. And who hasn’t worried, just a little, about naming their child something that’ll end up too popular?

So, to get a bit of perspective, let’s take a stroll down name-memory lane and see what names dominated each decade. Here’s a peek at the names that had parents all fired up over the past century!

1920s: The Age of Mary and Robert

Welcome to the roaring twenties, where Mary and Robert were all the rage! Parents of the era wanted sturdy, classic names – perhaps because they knew they'd stand the test of time. Mary is timelessly sweet, and Robert... well, you can always count on a Bob.

1930s: Mildred Steps Aside, James Takes Over

The Great Depression era didn’t have time for frivolity. Names like James and Betty were practical, no-nonsense choices. Simple and straightforward, just like that extra loaf of bread they stretched through the week.

1940s: The All-American John and Linda

With World War II front and center, names took on a patriotic, down-home feel. John and Linda were hugely popular. John was solid, dependable, the kind of name you could count on. And Linda? Linda was everyone's girl-next-door, the one that made a mean apple pie.

1950s: Mary and James Are Back

Yes, folks, the fifties recycled some names from earlier decades – we’re looking at you, Mary and James. The post-war baby boom had parents sticking to the classics. Stability was in, and what better way to say, "I want a picket fence" than with a name like Mary?

1960s: Lisa and Michael – Groovy, Baby

The sixties shook things up, and so did baby names! Lisa and Michael brought a hint of modernity. They sounded fresh, exciting, and just a little bit rebellious (for the sixties, anyway). You could totally picture Lisa in go-go boots.

1970s: Jennifer and Jason Go Disco

If there were any names that could’ve been made for glitter and disco balls, it’s Jennifer and Jason. These two completely took over the seventies, probably because they sounded just a bit like they came from a soap opera. Admit it – it works!

1980s: Jessica and Michael Rule the School

Oh, the eighties! Big hair, neon clothes, and Jessica and Michael, sitting at the top of the charts. These names had staying power and were pretty much a guarantee of hearing, “Hey, Jessica!” yelled across any school playground. Who knew that Jessica would feel like the height of modern chic?

1990s: Emily and Jacob – Welcome to the Millennial Era

Emily and Jacob were peak nineties. They’re simple, sweet, and they somehow feel like they’ll never go out of style. Jacob might even have a subtle literary edge, thanks to “Twilight” – or maybe that's a mixed blessing.

2000s: Emily and Jacob Keep Going Strong

By the time we hit the 2000s, it seems parents weren’t quite ready to let go of Emily and Jacob yet. These two names must’ve hit the sweet spot – not quite trendy but never old-fashioned. Call it the magic of the early aughts!

2010s: Emma and Liam Take Over

The 2010s brought a new vibe. Emma, classic and elegant, took center stage alongside Liam, a name that’s just a bit rugged (maybe he’ll grow up to be an outdoorsman?). Emma and Liam are names for modern kids – friendly, approachable, and maybe just a tiny bit hipster.

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So, what’s in store for the next decade? Will we see the return of names from the past, or will there be new contenders rising up the ranks? Whatever the trends bring, remember: you’re not just naming a baby – you’re giving them a name that’ll hopefully stand the test of time... or at least, until the next naming fad hits.