Furtado

Furtado is a surname of Portuguese origin, commonly found in Brazil and other Portuguese-speaking regions. The name derives from the Old Portuguese word *furto*, meaning "theft," which may have been used historically as a nickname for someone associated with thievery or as a place name referring to a location where thefts occurred. Over time, the surname evolved into *Furtado*, becoming a hereditary name.

In Brazil, Furtado is one of the most widespread surnames, particularly among individuals of European descent, especially those with Portuguese ancestry. The name has been carried by several notable figures across history, including politicians, artists, and academics. One of the most prominent figures with this surname is **José Bonifácio de Andrada e Silva**, a Brazilian statesman and intellectual who played a key role in Brazil’s independence from Portugal in the early 19th century.

The surname also appears in other Portuguese-speaking countries, such as Portugal, Angola, Mozambique, and Cape Verde, though it is less common than in Brazil. In some cases, variations of the spelling, such as *Furtado* or *Furtado*, may exist due to regional linguistic differences.

Culturally, the name has been referenced in literature, music, and media, often symbolizing heritage, identity, or social mobility. In modern times, individuals with the surname may trace their lineage through genealogical research, highlighting connections to Brazil’s colonial past and the broader diaspora of Portuguese-speaking communities.