

Why is England called 'England'? | COUNTRY NAME ORIGINS
Aug 27, 2025
Take a linguistic journey exploring the origins of various country names. Discover how America got its name from Amerigo Vespucci and why Britain is called 'Great.' Unravel the intriguing tales behind names like Canada and Moldova, linked to historical legends. The hosts delve into the cultural narratives that shape these identities while discussing the significance of naming conventions in geography and politics. It's a fascinating blend of etymology and history, showcasing the complexities of our world's names.
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How 'America' Entered Maps
- The name America first appeared in 1507 on Martin Waldseemüller's map and Cosmographia Introductio.
- Waldseemüller and Matthias Ringmann used a letter crediting Amerigo Vespucci to label the new continent America.
England Is The Angles' Legacy
- England derives from Anglalonde, the land of the Angles, one of the Germanic tribes that settled post-Roman Britain.
- The Angles' political dominance and royal presence made their name stick over Saxons and Jutes.
Why 'Great' Britain Exists
- Great Britain means the larger Britain in contrast to Brittany ('Little Britain') across the channel.
- The Roman/Greek name Britannia likely comes from a Celtic self-designation, the Britanni, meaning 'painted people.'