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Daniel (d(a)-niel) is pronounced DAN-yel. It is Hebrew in origin and means "God is my judge."

It has been a popular name for centuries and has kept a steady rate in over 12 countries, with a decline for Sweden in the 1970s to present. (chart from www.thinkbabynames.com)

20 variant forms: Dan, Danal, Dane, Daneal, Danek, Danell, Dani, Danial, Daniele, Danil, Danilo, Danko, Dannel, Dannie, Danny, Dantrell, Danyal, Danyel, Deiniol, and Dano.

Famous persons:
The name is most renowned for the Prophet Daniel who was a Jew exiled in the kingdom of Nebuchadnezzer. His vision was treasured by the king. He was a strict disciplinary to his Jewish faith which brought him under scrutiny from the Babylonians seeking the King's favour. Story most children remember is of him surviving the lion's den.

Daniel Day Lewis, actor, born 29 April 1957 in London, England. Movies: Raging Bull, Last of the Mohicans, Gangs of New York

Daniel Jacob Radcliffe, actor, born 23 July 1989 in Fuham, UK. Most famous role as Harry Potter in the series of those movies. Also has starred in David Copperfield and My Boy Jack.

Daniel Boone, frontiersman, 1734-1820. A man of legendary status in the United States. He served in the Revolutionary War and in government.

Daniel Patrick Moynihan, Senator, 16 March 1927 2 March 2003. Was New York Senator in 1976, 1982, 1988, and 1994. He served from 1977-2001. Awarded Presidential Medal of Freedom.

Places:
Daniel Island in Charleston, South Carolina, USA. It is a unique waterfront community.

Books:
"Daniel's Ride" by Michael Perry. Story of a boy who's brother has promised him a low rider car if he finishes high school.

"Daniel's Story" by Carol Matas. Story of a Jewish boy reflecting on a photo album of his holocaust family.

"Daniel Deronda" by George Eliot. It caused a great stir when published in 1876 for its exposure of human and social issues. It is now a TV series for PBS Masterpiece Theatre with High Dancy and Romola Garai.

"Ghost Rider" comic book. Daniel Ketch is the second ghost rider. He became a rider when his sister was killed by drug lord, Deathwatch.

Songs:
"Daniel" by Elton John on the album, "Don't Shoot Me, I'm Only the Piano Player." Lyrics written by Bernie Taupin. Story of two brothers parting ways. Was almost not released due to the length of the song.

"Danny Boy," a song whose lyrics are set to the tune of Londonderry Air written by Frederick Weatherly. It was first recorded in 1915 by Ernestine Schumann-Heink. An Irish anthem song.

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