palme

Palme is a surname of Germanic origin that is found in Sweden and other parts of Northern Europe. The name is associated with the word for palm in German, and it has historically been used as a descriptive or toponymic surname. It is most widely recognized in connection with several notable individuals as well as in cultural references such as film awards.

The best-known bearer is Olof Palme (1927–1986), a Swedish social democratic politician who served as prime minister from 1969 to 1976 and again from 1982 until his assassination in 1986 in Stockholm. Palme played a central role in Swedish domestic and foreign policy during the Cold War era, and his death had a lasting impact on Swedish political life and public security debates. The case of his assassination remained unsolved for decades, with a high-profile investigation spanning many years; in 2020 Swedish prosecutors indicated the primary suspect had died and closed the formal inquiry.

Palme is also associated with the Palme d'Or, the top prize awarded at the Cannes Film Festival. Often translated as the Golden Palm, the Palme d'Or is awarded to the best film in competition and has become one of the most prestigious honors in world cinema. The prize is closely tied to the festival’s history and influence within the international film industry.

In addition to these meanings, Palme may appear as a family surname across Europe and in contexts that reference the word for palm or palm-like symbolism in various languages.