Surname Harkis - Meaning and Origin
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Harkis: What does the surname Harkis mean?
The surname Harkis does not have a clear origin or specific meaning in dictionaries of surnames. It may be a variant of another name or potentially relate to individuals or families residing in a specific geographic area. However, it's worth noting that the term "harkis" has significant cultural and historical meaning in France. It is used to describe Algerians who served as auxiliary troops on the French side during the Algerian War from 1954 to 1962. The term is derived from the Arabic word "Harka", meaning movement or motion. However, it's important to realise that the people named Harkis are not necessarily related to this group. The interpretation of the surname should be considered with respect to the individuals and their personal or family history.
Order DNA origin analysisHarkis: Where does the name Harkis come from?
The surname Harkis appears to be of North African origin, specifically Algeria. The term "harkis" refers to Algerians who served as auxiliaries in the French Army during the Algerian War from 1954 to 1962. This term later extended to include all Algerians that adhered to the French during this period. So the given surname probably denotes a familial or ancestral connection to these individuals.
Post the Algerian War, many Harkis and their families migrated to France due to the threat of reprisals in independent Algeria, and a significant proportion have remained there. Therefore, the surname Harkis is more likely to be found in France today, particularly among the Algerian diaspora. However, it's also possible the surname could be found in other countries with significant Algerian communities, such as Canada or the United Kingdom. Please note that data on the contemporary distribution of this specific surname is limited, making it difficult to determine precisely where it is most common today.
Variations of the surname Harkis
The surname Harkis is believed to be predominantly Algerian in origin. As a note, "Harki" was a term used in France to refer to Algerian Muslims who served as auxiliaries in the French Army during the Algerian War (1954-1962). The term has since been used as a derogatory in Algeria. It's very unusual as a surname, even within Algeria or France, and it is highly possible that it may have variations or similar spellings based on regional dialects and languages. However, tracing its exact variants and spellings is challenging due to its unique nature and the socio-political history attached to it.
It can be registered slightly differently in other languages, resulting in names like "Harkiss" or "Harki's". Please remember that many North African surnames have diverse transliterations into Western languages due to different phonetics, so direct variants could be hard to track down. Additionally, it's complex to find surnames of the same origin as most Algerian surnames are tribal or toponymic, meaning they originate from the names of tribes or places. "Harkis" would not necessarily align with this pattern as it derives from an occupation or societal role.
Despite these issues, it's recommended to consult with a professional genealogist or a historical linguist to accurately trace the variations and origins of the surname "Harkis".
Famous people with the name Harkis
- Maya Harkis: Canadian television actress who rose to fame with her portrayal of Zaria Amin in the Canadian comedy sitcom How to Buy a Baby.
- Mohit Harkis: Canadian actor and director who has appeared in a number of films and television shows such as Code 8, 12 Monkeys, and Indian Horse.
- Mahteme Harkis: Ethiopian-Canadian dancer and choreographer who is known for her work with the Ballet Jörgen ensemble.
- Girdhar Harkis: English football player who has represented the English national team and played most notably for Oxford United.
- Sarav Harkis: English Photographer and Cinematographer who captured several notable images around the world and directed and produced the 2019 Joshua Tree music video for Machine Gun Kelly.
- Lorne Harkis: Canadian actor who is best known for his role in the Canadian sci-fi series Intelligence and for starring roles in the movies The Last Hit and The Grey Zone.
- Ganesh Harkis: Canadian recording artist best known for being part of the music duo Ghetto Mafia and also as a solo artist.
- Pasquale Harkis: Canadian race car driver who has taken part in a number of different racing series like the NASCAR Pinty's Series.
- Jwain Harkis: Canadian musician and composer who has written and produced several soundtracks for film and television.
- Hedda Harkis: Canadian actress and model who has had leading roles in shows like Blue Murder and Pilgrim Soul.