Colin Campbell, Canadian ice hockey player and coach

The name Colin Campbell is a common personal identifier, leading to numerous notable individuals across various fields and historical periods sharing this name. When encountering "Colin Campbell" in a text or discussion, it is crucial to consider the context to accurately identify the specific person being referenced. This phenomenon is often addressed through a process known as disambiguation, where distinguishing information such as dates of birth and death, professions, significant achievements, or geographical locations helps differentiate between individuals with identical or similar names.

Understanding which Colin Campbell is being discussed requires more than just the name itself. For instance, a search for "Colin Campbell" might yield results ranging from influential historical figures to contemporary professionals in diverse sectors. It is a name with deep roots, particularly within Scottish history and the diaspora, contributing to its widespread occurrence.

Notable Individuals Bearing the Name Colin Campbell

Many individuals named Colin Campbell have made significant contributions in their respective fields. Here are a few examples that highlight the diversity of achievements associated with this name:

• Colin Campbell (Architect, c. 1676–1729): A highly influential Scottish architect and one of the pioneers of Palladian architecture in Great Britain. He is most renowned for publishing Vitruvius Britannicus (1715–1725), a seminal work in three volumes showcasing designs and measured drawings of classical buildings and new architectural projects in Britain. This publication was instrumental in propagating the Palladian style across the country and profoundly impacted 18th-century British architecture, making him a key figure in the history of design.
• Colin Campbell (Sociologist, born 1940): A prominent British sociologist known for his significant contributions to the sociology of consumption and culture. He is particularly recognized for his book The Romantic Ethic and the Spirit of Modern Consumerism (1987), which explores the historical and cultural origins of modern consumerism, arguing for the central role of romanticism and hedonism in its development. His work offers critical insights into the motivations behind contemporary consumption patterns.
• Colin Campbell (Various Military Figures): Throughout history, several military leaders named Colin Campbell have served with distinction. For example, Field Marshal Colin Campbell, 1st Baron Clyde (1792–1863), was a notable Scottish soldier who served in numerous campaigns, including the Peninsular War, the First Opium War, and most famously, as Commander-in-Chief during the Indian Mutiny (1857). His leadership and strategic acumen played a significant role in British military history.
• Colin Campbell (Figures in Sports, Arts, and Business): The name also appears frequently across various professional sports (such as football or ice hockey), in the arts (actors, musicians, writers), and in the business world (entrepreneurs, executives). Each of these individuals has their own unique biography and set of accomplishments that distinguish them.

How to Identify the Correct Colin Campbell

To ensure you are referring to the specific individual named Colin Campbell, always seek additional identifying information. This typically includes:

• Dates: Birth and death years are crucial for historical figures.
• Profession/Occupation: Knowing their field (e.g., architect, sociologist, general, athlete) narrows down possibilities significantly.
• Key Achievements/Works: Specific projects, publications, or historical events they were involved in.
• Associated Organizations/Locations: Universities, companies, or geographical areas strongly linked to their life or career.

Frequently Asked Questions About Individuals Named Colin Campbell

Why are there so many famous people named Colin Campbell?

The name Colin Campbell has Scottish origins and is relatively common, particularly within Scotland and among descendants of Scottish immigrants worldwide. This widespread use naturally leads to many individuals achieving prominence in various fields over centuries, resulting in multiple notable figures sharing the same name.

How can I find specific information about a particular Colin Campbell?

To find information about a specific Colin Campbell, it is best to use search terms that include additional identifying details, such as their profession (e.g., "Colin Campbell architect"), their field of work (e.g., "Colin Campbell sociologist consumerism"), or known significant events or publications associated with them (e.g., "Colin Campbell Vitruvius Britannicus"). This precision helps filter results and leads to more accurate information.

Is Colin Campbell a common name in Scotland?

Yes, "Colin" is a traditional Scottish given name, and "Campbell" is one of the most prominent Scottish clan surnames. The combination is therefore quite common, especially in Scotland and among the Scottish diaspora around the world. This contributes to the frequency of notable individuals sharing this name.