First found in Austria, where the name was closely identified in early mediaeval times with the feudal society which would become prominent throughout European history. The name would later emerge as a noble family with great influence, having many distinguished branches, and become noted for its involvement in social, economic and political affairs.

After the First World War, Austria became a republic. The Treaty of Versailles broke up the empire in 1919 and many of the Sudeten Germans were incorporated into the new nation of Czechoslovakia. In the 20th century, many Austrians migrated to other parts of Germany or Europe, as well as to North America. In the United States, the majority of settlers landed in Philadelphia, and moved on to Ohio, Texas, Illinois, California, New York, and Maryland. Many German settlers also migrated to Canada, particularly Ontario and the Prairies. Amongst the settlers in North America with this distinguished name Kaiser were Peter Keyser, who came to Germantown, Pennsylvania in 1683; and Dirk Keyser, who arrived there in 1691. They were followed by Georg Friedrich Keyser and Johann Keyser, who came in 1709-10. Jerick Kaiser came to Philadelphia in 1740.

Motto Translated: With God for emperors and realm

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