National Alex Day is observed on April 21 every year. The name ‘Alex,’ which is short for Alexander, is one of the oldest and most popular names. It borrows from the Greek name Aléxandros. Initially, Alex was a masculine name, but today, it is considered unisex. It’s a short form for names such as Alexis, Alexandria, and Alexandra. Around 244,000 Americans share this name, with almost 39,000 of them being in California alone. This name has multiple variants in several languages including Arabic, Amharic, Yiddish, and Mongolian.
History of National Alex Day
National Alex Day is a day dedicated to all the people who have this name or the names it is derived from. Alexander is a name of Greek origin and means ‘protector of mankind.’ It is often shortened to ‘Alex,’ which is used as a standalone name as well. Alexander III of Macedon or Alexander the Great, is still the most famous Alex. He succeeded his father, Philip II of Macedon, in 336 B.C., at the young age of 20. Alexander went on to establish one of the largest empires in the world, which stretched from ancient Greece to India. Considered among the most outstanding leaders and military commanders in history, Alexander III achieved all of this in just a decade before he died at the young age of 32.
The Scottish-born scientist, Alexander Graham Bell, invented the first practical telephone and co-founded the American Telephone and Telegraph Company (AT&T). Bell’s wife and mother were deaf, which prompted his research and development of hearing devices. This work eventually led to the invention of the telephone. In 1876, he received the first U.S. patent for the technology. Ironically, Bell thought his creation was too intrusive and refused to have one in his study.
Alexander Hamilton, one of the founding fathers of the United States, is credited with formulating the American financial system. He also fought in the American Revolutionary War, helped draft the constitution, and served as the first Secretary of the U.S. Treasury. Hamilton died from mortal wounds sustained in a duel in 1804.
National Alex Day timeline
Following his election victory, George Washington appoints Hamilton the first Secretary of the American Treasury
Alexander Fleming discovers penicillin at St. Mary’s Hospital in London.
Queen Elizabeth knights Manchester United manager, Alex Ferguson.
A Ugandan action-comedy movie, “Who Killed Captain Alex” becomes a global sensation despite being filmed on a paltry budget of $85.
National Alex Day FAQs
What is the etymology of the name Alex?
Alex is derived from the ancient Greek name ‘Alexandros,’ which itself is derived from the Greek words ‘alexein’ and ‘aner,’ meaning ‘man or warrior’ and ‘to defend’ or ‘to protect,’ respectively.
Is Alex mentioned in the Bible?
Alex is not mentioned by name in the Hebrew Bible but is alluded to as the ‘first king’ in Daniel eight.
Is Alex a firm name?
Alex is an excellent choice for a mighty name because of its association with Alexander the Great.
National Alex Day Activities
Read about all the great Alexanders
Alexander of Macedonia wasn’t the only famous person with this name. There were dozens of rulers throughout antiquity and the Middle Ages who had this name. Read about the incredible history of people with this Greek name.
Say it in Greek
Get a Greek alphabet necklace that spells out your name the original way. It’s fashionable, and you can educate others on what it means when they ask about it.
Commission a plaque
If jewelry isn’t your style or you find it too bothersome, then a personalized name plaque will surely pique your interest! Greek letters tend to stand out quite nicely against a wall or desk.
5 Amazing Facts About The Name Alex
Alexander the Great remained invincible
Alexander the Great remained invincible till his demise since he never lost a battle in the 15 years of his conquest in which he fought numerous wars the world over.
Bell invents the photophone
Bell, the creator of the telephone, also made a wireless phone called the photophone, which transmitted conversations and sounds through beams of light.
The prince of the last Russian dynasty
Alexei Nikolaevich was the last Tsesarevich or prince of the Russian Romanov dynasty, the last dynasty to rule Russia.
Dropout becomes a fashion icon
Alexander Wang, the American fashion designer, dropped out of college at the age of 20 and launched his brand in 2005.
A less glamorous beginning
Alexander Skarsgard, star of “True Blood” and “Generation Kill,” served in the Swedish military before becoming a Hollywood actor.
Why We Love National Alex Day
This name conveys power
Several rulers and politicians carried this name; there’s something about it that conveys a sense of power and nobility. That is why this name never goes out of use.
No nickname is required with it
Alex is short and sweet, memorable but not dull. It is the first name and not just a short form. Since this name is already short and succinct, it doesn’t need a nickname.
It is a promise of greatness
Alex seems to be associated with greatness. It’s a name borne by inventors, kings, generals, and scholars. Even today, people take pride in giving this name to their children.
National Alex Day dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | April 21 | Monday |
| 2026 | April 21 | Tuesday |
| 2027 | April 21 | Wednesday |
| 2028 | April 21 | Friday |
| 2029 | April 21 | Saturday |
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