Long Latino Names

Dear Gabacho:
Why do Spanish [speakers] have so many names? What do they all mean? What name should we use?

Confused Gringo

Dear Confused Gringo:
Latinos honor their forefathers and mothers by including their names in their own. Let's use an example to illustrate: Juan Carlos Vargas Soto. This man's first name is Juan Carlos (Juanca would be a nickname). The middle name Vargas (1st surname) comes from his father's last name (apellido paterno), and the last name Soto (2nd surname) is the mother's maiden name (apellido materno). Thus, simply put, his name is Juan Vargas, as per U.S. tradition. As with anyone's name, ask the individual what they would prefer to be called. For more information on latino names and origins, please check out this very interesting site: Spanish Surnames, Meanings & Origins.