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In the United States, the first name of the president often becomes a popular name for parents to give their new-born sons. Dwight was popular in 1945 and 1953; Franklin was most often used in 1933. Barack Obama is different. His names aren’t just popular in the U.S. Parents in other countries are also giving their children the name Barack, Obama, or Barack Obama. For example, according to BBC, in a south-west Kenyan province, 15 babies were born on America’s election night last year. Of them, five were named Barack Obama and three girls were called Michelle, after Mrs. Obama. Somehow I doubt Yukio or Miyuki have become popular baby names since Mr. Hatoyama became Prime Minister of Japan last fall. What do you think? (by Prof. Carmella Lieske)
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