Crippen

Crippen is a surname of English origin. It is thought to be a diminutive of the name "Crispin," which itself is derived from the Latin word "crispus," meaning "curly-haired." The surname likely originated as a given name and later became hereditary.

One of the most famous bearers of the name was Dr. Hawley Harvey Crippen, a Canadian-born physician and serial killer. In 1910, he was convicted and executed in England for the murder of his wife, Cora. The case was highly publicized and is considered one of the earliest instances of a criminal being apprehended due to the use of wireless telegraphy.

Other notable individuals with the surname Crippen include:

* Liza Crippen: A British politician who served as a Member of Parliament.

* Robert Crippen: A retired American astronaut and former commander of the Space Shuttle program.

The surname Crippen is not particularly common but can be found in English-speaking countries. The historical association with Dr. Hawley Harvey Crippen often leads to a recognition of the name, though the family itself has a much longer and broader history. Variations in spelling may exist due to historical transcription practices.