The name "August" has Latin origins and is derived from the Latin word "augustus," which means "great," "venerable," or "majestic." It was also used as a title for Roman emperors, and the first Roman emperor, Gaius Octavius Thurinus, adopted the name "Augustus" as his official title.
Over time, "Augustus" became a popular given name in Europe, particularly in Germany and Scandinavia. It eventually evolved into the modern English name "August," which is still used as a given name today.
In addition to being a given name, "August" is also the name of a month in the Gregorian calendar, which was named in honor of the Roman emperor Augustus. The month of August was originally called "Sextilis" in Latin, but it was renamed in 8 BCE in honor of Augustus, who had many important victories and accomplishments during that month.
There have been many notable people throughout history named August. Here are ten examples:
Augustus Caesar - The first Roman emperor, who ruled from 27 BC until his death in AD 14.
August Strindberg - Swedish playwright, novelist, poet, and essayist who is considered one of the most important Swedish authors.
August Wilhelm von Schlegel - German poet, translator, and critic who played a significant role in the development of German Romanticism.
Auguste Rodin - French sculptor who is considered one of the most important sculptors of the modern era.
Auguste Escoffier - French chef and restaurateur who is considered one of the greatest chefs in history.
August Wilson - American playwright who is known for his plays exploring African-American experiences and culture.
August Macke - German Expressionist painter who was a member of the influential art group known as Der Blaue Reiter.
August Derleth - American writer and publisher who was known for his horror and science fiction writing.
August Krogh - Danish physiologist who won the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1920 for his work on the regulation of blood flow in capillaries.
August Landmesser - German shipyard worker who famously (and bravely) refused to perform the Nazi salute during a rally in 1936.
Every year, on March 8, celebrate this fascinating and unique name.
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