Canarian Aboriginal Names: Revival and Identity in Modern Naming
In recent decades, aboriginal Canarian names—often referred to as Guanche names—have experienced a significant resurgence in the naming landscape of the Canary Islands. This trend is not merely a cultural curiosity; it reflects broader historical, social, and political processes shaping Canarian society today[^antroponimos-analisis-de-una-muestra-canaria-de-los-dos-ultimos-decenios].
A Noteworthy and Recent Phenomenon
According to research by Reyes Díaz and Marrero Pulido, among a sample of 1,755 university students from the Canary Islands, 56 different aboriginal names were identified, representing 7.32% of all distinct names. These names were held by 150 students (8.54% of the total), indicating that their use is far from marginal. Among female names, Yaiza, Nayra, Dácil, Idaira, Yurena, Haridian, and Arminda stand out, while among males, Yeray, Aday, and Ayoze are most prominent[^antroponimos-analisis-de-una-muestra-canaria-de-los-dos-ultimos-decenios].
Identity, Politics, and Fashion
The rise of aboriginal names is closely linked to the recovery of Canarian identity following Spain’s democratic transition in 1977, when regulations restricting names to Spanish origins were relaxed. This change allowed citizens to choose names from any origin, leading to a renewed appreciation for Guanche names as symbols of identity and cultural distinction. The resurgence of nationalist movements and the spread of research on aboriginal history and culture further contributed to the popularity of these names among younger generations[^antroponimos-analisis-de-una-muestra-canaria-de-los-dos-ultimos-decenios].
Tradition and Authenticity
While some Guanche names have been questioned for their historical authenticity, their use reflects a desire for originality and a connection to island roots rather than strict historical accuracy. Names like Dácil or Gara, for example, have been identified as place names or literary inventions, but this has not prevented their adoption and reimagining within Canarian collective identity[^antroponimos-analisis-de-una-muestra-canaria-de-los-dos-ultimos-decenios].
A Mirror of Dynamic Culture
The choice of aboriginal names in the Canary Islands demonstrates how culture is dynamic, renewing itself through both internal and external influences. In contrast to the global trend of adopting foreign names, the revival of Guanche names represents an affirmation of local identity and a way to keep the islands’ historical memory alive. Thus, anthroponymy becomes a mirror of social change and the evolution of Canarian identity in the 21st century[^antroponimos-analisis-de-una-muestra-canaria-de-los-dos-ultimos-decenios].