Discover people named Kornelis Herder

The last name Herder has its origins in Germany, deriving from the Middle High German word "herder," which means "herdsman" or "shepherd." This occupational surname likely first appeared in rural areas where livestock farming was prevalent, reflecting the profession of those who initially bore the name. The Herder family name is historically associated with pastoral communities, emphasizing a connection to agriculture and animal husbandry. Variations of the surname can be found in different countries and cultures, including "Herd" in some German-speaking regions and "Herdman" in English contexts, which also denotes a similar occupation. The name has been carried by notable figures, such as Johann Gottfried Herder, an influential German philosopher and literary critic, further embedding the surname in cultural history. Overall, the Herder surname encapsulates a rich heritage tied to pastoral life and the agrarian economy of its early bearers.