Discover people named Penelope Ashley Cooper

The last name "Cooper" has its origins in England, deriving from the Middle English term "couper," which referred to a barrel maker or cask maker, a profession that was essential in the storage and transportation of goods, particularly in the brewing and shipping industries. The name is believed to have first appeared in the medieval period, particularly in regions where trade and commerce flourished, such as London and other urban centers. As a surname, Cooper reflects the occupational heritage of those who initially bore it, indicating a skilled craftsperson involved in woodworking and the production of containers. Variations of the surname can be found in different cultures and languages, including "Küper" in German-speaking regions and "Coupé" in French contexts, with differences in spelling and pronunciation reflecting local linguistic characteristics. The name has also spread to various English-speaking countries, including the United States, where it remains a common surname today.