Choosing a name for a child is a significant and often lifelong decision, influenced by a myriad of factors. Some parents name their children after celebrities or historical figures they look up to, while others might choose names based on practicality or personal affection. But what if the name was chosen because of a famous person you admire, only to find out later that said person is not as admirable as you thought?

Cool Celebrity Names That Turned Out Cold

I knew a guy who decided to name his son 'Jagger' because it sounded cool. However, the kid's peers at school had no idea who Mick Jagger was. The father, who surprisingly wasn't a fan of the Rolling Stones, continued to refer to him as Jagger. The situation eventually led to marital issues, with the mother ultimately opting to end the relationship after a few years.

Similarly, naming a child Bowie, after David Bowie, can be equally perplexing. The name might have been chosen for its uniqueness, but without a clear connection to Bowie's career or legacy, the name can seem confusing to new acquaintances.

Are You Prone to Changing Your Name?

My own surname, being of British Isles ancestry, carries no historical stigma like Hitler. However, if I had been named Adolf, I would most certainly consider changing it to Dolph. The name Adolf is inherently associated with the Holocaust and other atrocities, making it a difficult moniker to wear comfortably. I believe that simply being named Adolf could have social and personal repercussions, given the undeniable historical context.

Similarly, I would also consider changing my name if I were named after Genghis Khan. While his historical achievements are noteworthy, the name "Genghis" is quite notorious for its association with fierce conquest and war. Imagine being in a bar, pre-cellphone era, trying to navigate a difficult conversation. If a bartender loudly proclaimed, "Is there a Genghis here? He's wanted on the phone," the response would likely be a hasty exit to avoid any unwelcome attention.

Names and Notoriety: A Losing Proposition?

Charlies Manson, Ted Bundy, and Adolf Hitler are names that carry heavy moral and legal weight. The reputations of these individuals are directly tied to criminal acts, mass violence, and historical atrocities. Names like these can be challenging to live with, as they may perpetuate negative associations that the individual cannot change.

Donald Trump, while not as historically infamous as the previous examples, still commands a polarizing image. Being named after such a figure could also lead to complications, especially in an era where public figures can easily be scrutinized and criticized.

Even figures like Benito Mussolini, while not as widely known in the United States, have their fair share of controversial actions and reputations that could make it difficult to embrace the name with ease.

Choosing a name is a deeply personal decision, but the choices we make can have lasting impacts. If a name becomes associated with something that causes discomfort or unwanted attention, it’s not unusual to seriously consider a change.