First found in Essex where they had been granted lands after the Norman Conquest in 1066 A.D.

The unstable environment in England at this time caused numerous families to board ships and leave in search of opportunity and freedom from persecution abroad in places like Ireland, Australia, and particularly the New World. The voyage was extremely difficult, however, and only taken at great expense. The cramped conditions and unsanitary nature of the vessels caused many to arrive diseased and starving, not to mention destitute from the enormous cost. Still opportunity in the emerging nations of Canada and the United States was far greater than at home and many went on to make important contributions to the cultures of their adopted countries. An examination of many early immigration records reveals that people bearing the name German arrived in North America very early: Thomas German who landed in Maryland in 1654; John German settled in Pennsylvania, with his wife Margaret, and two daughters, in 1683; Thomas German settled in Maryland in 1660.

For more information on the last name German, the PDF Surname History is available for purchase as well as other products.