Well you learn something new

 

The surname Christopher is of Greek origin, derived from the Greek word Χριστόφορος (Christophoros), meaning "Christ-bearer." The name was originally given to Christians who carried a crucifix or other religious symbol as a sign of their faith.

The name Christopher became popular in England in the Middle Ages, and it has remained a popular name ever since. In the United States, Christopher was ranked among the top 10 most popular boy's names from 1940 to 1995.

The name Christopher has been borne by many notable people throughout history, including:

• Saint Christopher, a 3rd-century Christian martyr who is said to have carried the infant Christ across a river. Legend has it that Christopher was a giant who was originally named Reprobus. He was so large that he could carry a tree trunk across a river with ease. One day, he was carrying a child across a river when the child became heavier and heavier. The child eventually revealed that he was Christ, and that Christopher was carrying him across the world.

• Christopher Columbus, an Italian explorer who is credited with discovering the Americas in 1492. Columbus was born in Genoa, Italy, in 1451. He studied navigation and cartography, and he dreamed of sailing westward to reach Asia. He eventually persuaded Queen Isabella of Spain to finance his voyage, and he set sail in 1492. After a two-month journey, he landed in the Bahamas, believing he had reached Asia.

• Christopher Marlowe, an English playwright and poet who is considered one of the greatest dramatists of the Elizabethan era. Marlowe was born in Canterbury, England, in 1564. He studied at Cambridge University, and he began writing plays in the 1580s. His most famous plays include "The Tragical History of the Life and Death of Doctor Faustus," "Tamburlaine the Great," and "The Jew of Malta."

• Christopher Reeve, an American actor who is best known for his role as Superman in the film series of the same name. Reeve was born in New York City in 1952. He began acting as a child, and he eventually starred in several Broadway plays. In 1978, he was cast as Superman in the first film of the series. He went on to star in three more Superman films, and he became a popular icon for his portrayal of the superhero.

These are just a few of the many notable people who have borne the name Christopher. The name has a long and rich history, and it continues to be a popular choice for parents around the world.