{{ad}} |
|
|
Schleswig-Holstein, which is the northernmost state in western Germany, is the homeland of the proud surname Karlsen. German surnames developed at a time when most of Schleswig, and most of the German provinces, were states of the Holy Roman Empire. At first people used only a single name, but as the population grew and people began to travel, they began to find it necessary to take on an additional name to differentiate themselves. Fairly general principles guided the development of hereditary surnames in Schleswig. Two of the common types of family names found in the Schleswig are patronymic surnames, which are derived from the father's given name, and metronymic surnames, which are derived from the mother's given name. The surname Karlsen derived from the Old German personal name Karl, which is derived from the Middle Latin word "carolus," which refers to an adult male.
The surname Karlsen was first found in Schleswig-Holstein, where the family rose to prominence early in the mediaeval era. From the 13th century the surname was identified with the great social and economic evolution which made this territory a landmark contributor to the development of the nation.
This web page shows only a small excerpt of our Karlsen research. Another 135 words (10 lines of text) covering the years 1717 and 1827 are included under the topic Early Karlsen History in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.
Spelling variations of this family name include: Karlson, Carlson, Karlsen, Carlsen, Karlsson, Karlssen, Carlsson and many more.
Another 25 words (2 lines of text) are included under the topic Early Karlsen Notables in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.