Marx (surname) explained

The surname Marx is a Germanic surname. The origins thereof is most likely Austrian, as the earliest known records of the surname Marx is found in Austria.

The surname Marx was first found in Austria, where the name could be considered to have made a great contribution to the feudal society which became the backbone of modern Europe. The name became prominent in local affairs and branched into many houses which played important roles in the local and national conflicts, with each group seeking power and status in an ever changing territorial profile."[1]

The German/Austrian surname can still be found in Germany and Austria. It can also be found in various other places where German settlers moved such as the USA, South Africa and England.

The origins of Marx could possibly be Roman, meaning "of mars" in reference to the Roman god of war. It could also be a derivative of "Marks" and have its origin due to early European Christians naming themselves after the Apostle Mark.

The surname can also be found under the Jewish community as is the case with many German surnames, this is due to the fact that Jews were persecuted in these states at various times throughout history, and would change their surnames to local surnames in order to avoid persecution. In the case of the surname Marx, most notably, the father of Karl Marx changed his name to Heinrich Marx in 1817 or 1818 due to the persecution of Jews in Prussia.

Marx is a Germanised form of the Jewish family name Mordechai. It is also possibly derived from Marcus.[2]

Notable people with the surname

Politics

Television and film

Music

Sports

In other fields

Other media

See also

Notes and References

  1. Web site: Marx History, Family Crest, Coat of Arms.
  2. Web site: Marks Surname Meaning, History & Origin.