Pledged to God
Originally a diminutive of Elizabeth, Bessie has functioned as a standalone name for centuries. It shares the Hebrew etymology meaning 'God is my oath' or 'pledged to God.' While it was a Top 10 name in the late 19th century, it is now considered a rare vintage gem.
Less common today
Bessie isn't in the latest US Top 1000. It last peaked at #1,905 in 1990.
US births per 5-year period, 1990–present (SSA data).
Renowned blues singer known as the Empress of the Blues
First African-American woman and first Native American to hold a pilot license
British Labour Party politician and social reformer
American-British motion picture actress of the silent film era
Ambitious and optimistic girl scout protagonist · The Mighty B!
