Ernesto

Ernesto has had a place on the U.S. popularity charts since the late 1800s, most likely influenced by the Italian-American population first and then followed by the growth in the Hispanic and Latino populations later in the 20th century. While Ernesto has never been a widely used name, it has remained on the charts consistently and without fail for over 100 years. In the middle of the 20th century an intelligent and handsome Marxist revolutionary by the name of Ernesto “Che” Guevara rose to prominence as a leader in Fidel Castro’s successful efforts in overthrowing Cuba’s government (although Guevara was Argentinean). He became a symbol to the growing counterculture movement taking place in America at the same time. It turns out that “Che” is a common nickname for Ernesto. In another cultural reference, Ernesto is the name of a character (tenor) in Italian composer Gaetano Donizetti’s triumphant comic opera “Don Pasquale” first performed in 1843. Ernesto is the nephew and heir to Don Pasquale’s fortune, but he angers his uncle by refusing an arranged marriage to a wealthy lady – he’s lovesick for another woman. A ruse is concocted to help Ernesto escape the wishes of his uncle and the comedy ensues from there. Despite the light-hearted comedy of this still-played opera, Ernesto is a name of “serious” business.