Spanish Baca is a surname in Spain. The Baca family of New Mexico is one of the most well-known persons with the surname. Elfego Baca (1865–1945) was an American shooter, lawyer, and politician. His brother William D. Baca was also an influential figure in New Mexico politics. The last name Baca has been found in countries including Spain, America, and India. There are several theories on how the name Baca came to be. Some believe it is a form of Henry or Edgar, others think it is a variant of Baldwin, while some believe it is a first name: Benjamin, Bernhard, or Bertrand. In Spain the name Baca has traditionally been used as a patronymic surname, that is, it is based on the name of the father. It may also be used as a matronymic surname, that is, it is based on the name of the mother. In America the name Baca has always been used as a surname. It may also be used as a given name. In India the name Baca has been found among the Indian community.