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Canal

We found for the Canal surname
Explore the history of the last name Canal in birth and death records, immigration documents, and other historical record collections
47,995
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1,599
Immigration & Travel Records
25,422
Family Tree Profiles
8,321
Census & Voter List Records
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Search records for the surname Canal across MyHeritage's database of 38.8 billion historical records

Search records for the surname Canal across MyHeritage's database of 38.8 billion historical records
Origin and meaning of the Canal last nameOrigin and meaning of the Canal last name

Origin and meaning of the Canal last name

The surname Canal has its roots in the Latin word canalis, meaning channel or pipe, which reflects a geographical or occupational origin related to waterways or irrigation systems. The surname is believed to have first appeared in regions of Southern Europe, particularly in France and Spain, where canals and waterways played a significant role in agriculture and trade. Over time, individuals bearing the surname Canal may have been associated with occupations such as canal builders, navigators, or those involved in water management, reflecting the importance of these roles in the development of local economies. The name may also carry connotations of fluidity and adaptability, traits that were essential for those living in close proximity to water. Culturally, the surname Canal has variations across different languages and regions, including Canale in Italian and Canal in Spanish and French. These variations often reflect local dialects and linguistic evolutions, with pronunciation and spelling adapting to fit regional phonetics. The surname has spread geographically through migration, particularly during periods of economic opportunity or social upheaval, leading to its presence in various countries, including the Americas, where descendants of European immigrants carried the name. In some regions, the surname may have taken on additional meanings or significance, often tied to local history or notable families. Notable figures associated with the surname Canal include individuals who have made contributions in various fields, such as art, politics, and science. For instance, the Canal family in France has historical ties to the development of hydraulic engineering, which significantly influenced urban planning and infrastructure. Events such as the construction of major canals in Europe during the Industrial Revolution also brought attention to the surname, enhancing its recognition and association with innovation and progress. Overall, the surname Canal reflects a rich tapestry of historical significance, cultural variations, and notable contributions that have shaped its identity over time.
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Where is the Canal family from?

Trace the Canal family's migration over time through census records. The Canal surname appears in censuses from the following countries: USA, United Kingdom, Sweden, Canada and France between 1830 and 1950. The majority of Canal families were found in census records from France in 1930.
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The Canal family history runs deeper than you think
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Famous and notable people throughout history with the last name Canal

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What types of historical records can you find for the Canal family?

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family history journey

What did the Canal family do for a living?

Top Male Occupations in 1910
Laborer
39%
Clerk
19%
Tailor
10%
Bookkeeper
6%
Top Female Occupations in 1910
Clerk
33%
Hairdresser
33%
Waiter
33%
The top reported professions for Canal men and women from the United States in 1910 were laborer and clerk. 39% of men with the last name Canal worked as laborers and 33% of women with the last name Canal worked as a clerk.
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