The significance of a name cannot be overstated. It is the label that identifies us, that is carried with us throughout our lives. In my case, my name, Ryan Negri, holds within it a rich history and a legacy that has been passed down from my ancestors. As I reflect on my name, I wonder what led my parents to choose it for me. Was there any historical significance or figure that influenced their decision, or did my grandparents play a role in helping them pick it? Growing up, I always felt that my name was unique and memorable. However, I never knew much about its origins or meaning until later in life. Learning that my name has Irish roots and means "little king" has given me a new appreciation for its significance (Sauer). Although I don't aspire to be a king, the message behind my name has always resonated with me. It serves as a reminder that I have the potential to be a leader, to make an impact, and to have control over my own life.

The surname Negri, on the other hand, has a different story. It is of Italian origin, specifically Northern Italy (House of Names). The name migrated to southern Italy, where my grandfather was born. The name Negri has different meanings depending on the region it comes from. In Italy, it means black (House of Names). As someone with Italian heritage, I've always been fascinated by the unique Italian surnames that I’ve come across. The name Negri has different meanings depending on the region it comes from. In Italy, it means "black," (House of Names). In addition to their literal meanings, Italian surnames often have a strong cultural and regional significance. Many Italian surnames can be traced back to a specific town or region, which can provide valuable insight into a person's family history and ancestry (Adams).

In conclusion, a name is not just a label, but a reflection of one's cultural identity and history. My name, Ryan Negri, carries with it a legacy that I am proud of. It inspires me to strive for excellence and to honor the traditions and values of my ancestors. It is a name that I will carry with me throughout my journey, and I am grateful for the rich history and cultural identity that it represents

Works Cited

Sauer, Mary. “Ryan - Baby Boy Name Meaning, Origin, and Popularity.” BabyCenter, www.babycenter.com/baby-names/details/ryan-3944

“Negri Name Meaning, Family History, Family Crest & Coats of Arms.” HouseOfNames, 1 Jan. 2000, https://www.houseofnames.com/negri-family-crest

Denny, Frederick M. “ Encyclopedia of Religion." Encyclopedia.com. 21 Mar. 2023 .” Encyclopedia.com, Encyclopedia.com, https://www.encyclopedia.com/environment/encyclopedias-almanacs-transcripts-and-maps/names-and-naming

Adams, Suzanne R. “Italian Last Names: Their Meaning, Origin, and Significance.” FamilySearch, 15 Sept. 2022, https://www.familysearch.org/en/blog/my-italian-last-name