Discover people named Samuel Morris

The last name Morris has its origins in both English and Welsh cultures, deriving from the given name Maurice, which itself comes from the Latin name Mauritius, meaning "dark-skinned" or "Moorish." The name first appeared in medieval England and Wales, where it was often associated with individuals who were of Moorish descent or had connections to the Moors, a term used to describe Muslim inhabitants of North Africa and Spain. Historically, those bearing the surname Morris were likely to have been landowners or individuals of some social standing, reflecting the name's association with nobility and status. Variations of the surname can be found across different regions and languages, including Morrisey, Morice, and Moris in English-speaking countries, as well as Maurice in French contexts. In some cases, the name has also been adapted into different spellings, such as Moris in Spanish-speaking regions. Overall, the surname Morris encapsulates a rich historical narrative tied to identity, geography, and social status.