Popularity of Selected Baby Names in the US, 1900 – 2020

Popularity of Selected Names in the US, 1900 – 2020
graph by graphsarecool; slow reveal by Jenna Laib

Type of Graph: line graph

Purpose

This slow reveal is designed to support analysis and discussion of both the data and the design choices. The questions in the slide deck invite learners to examine trends, relationships, and possible interpretations. This graph invites students to the estimate and compare values, work with large numbers, compare and contrast two graphs, and consider trends.

About This Graph

This visualization is not provided for reuse or redistribution. Readers and educators are encouraged to view the original visualization in its published context.

Original Visualization:
graphsarecool.. “[OC] Baby Names are Becoming More Diverse, But Shorter.” Reddit (r/dataisbeautiful), March 19, 2026.
Accessed at: https://www.reddit.com/r/dataisbeautiful/comments/1rxzq6x/comment/obaonwx/?context=3

Data Sources:
US Social Security Administration. “Beyond the Top 1000 Names.” SSA: last accessed April 11, 2026.
Accessed at: https://www.ssa.gov/oact/babynames/limits.html

In The Classroom

There are many different mathematical connections that can be made to this data and data visualization.

Potential Math Content: line graph, estimate values, compare values, maximum, examine trends, change over time, interpreting line, interpreting values

Potential Content Connections: names, US culture