Image: Shutterstock
Parents choose historical boy names for their children because they want them to follow the same path of righteousness and wisdom. Throughout history, names have been significant in shaping identities and cultural narratives. From names of biblical figures to revolutionary leaders, these names often carry stories of resilience, strength, and moral values that resonate with many. Their efforts have helped to shape the current generation. Several notable historical figures teach us kindness, compassion, leadership, and perseverance. You might have looked through the history books for historical name inspiration for your little prince. That is why we have created this post with the names of the most respected revolutionaries, educators, politicians, and artists who will keep inspiring your children to achieve greater things in life.
Famous Historical Boy Names, With Meanings
1. Abraham
The name of the former US president Abraham Lincoln, who abolished slavery, had to make it to our list of significant historical figures. His name is of Hebrew origin and means “exalted father.”
2. Adams
The English and Scottish origin name, Adams, is patronymic in nature as it means “son of Adams.” Thus, the name is inspired by the second president of America, John Adams.
Did you know?3. Albert
Image: Shutterstock
It is inspired by the Theoretical Physicist Albert Einstein, who was crowned as the pillar of Modern Physics after his Theory of Relativity. Albert means “noble” and is of Old German origin.
4. Alexander
The neutral name is inspired by the Scottish inventor Alexander Graham Bell. The name originates from the Latin and Greek name Alexandros, which means “defender of men.”
5. Alfred
Meaning “elf or magical counsel,” the name Alfred is of Old English origin. We took inspiration for this name from the noble King Alfred, who dedicated his life to promoting the importance of education.
6. Ali
The name Ali means “exalted” in Arabic. It is a name inspired by the professional American boxer and social activist Mohammad Ali. His perseverance would be an emerging impulse for your baby boy.
7. Amadeus
The name is inspired by the most influential Austrian composer, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. It is of Latin origin and means “lover of God.”
8. Anselm
The ancient and classic name Anselm is inspired by the Italian philosopher of the same name. It means “with divine protection” and is of Old German origin.
9. Antoninus
It is the alternative form of the Roman name Antonius or Anthony, which means “priceless one.” This would be an elegant name for your child if you wish to name him so. The name is inspired by the Roman Emperor, Antoninus Pius, one of the five good emperors of Rome.
10. Archimedes
The Greek mathematician Archimedes changed the world of physics with his discoveries, and thus, is a notable person in our list of historical baby names. His name means “master planner” and is of Greek origin.
11. Arthur
This name is inspired by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, who set the trend in detective novels with his creation of the everlasting masterpiece, Sherlock Holmes. His name means “means” and is of Irish, Celtic, and Gaelic origins.
12. Audie
The most decorated soldier of America, Audie Murphy, is our inspiration behind this name. It coincidentally means “noble strength” and has Old English origins.
13. Baldwin
The name is inspired by the American Novelist James Baldwin. He redefined the literature world by expressing the social and racial struggles through his work. The name Baldwin means “brave friend” and is of German origin.
14. Benjamin
Inspired by the Founding Father of the United States, Benjamin Franklin, this is an ideal name for patriots. Benjamin is of Biblical origin and means “son of the right hand.”
15. Blaise
The unique name is of French and Latin origin and means “stutter.” The inspirational mathematician and philosopher Blaise Pascal make this name noteworthy.
16. Booker
It is an occupational name for someone “dealing with books.” Booker. T. Washington was an educator and an aspiring leader who fought for the rights of the African-American community during the 1870s. By naming your child Booker, you would influence your child to strive for equality throughout their life.
17. Cary
Of Celtic origin, the name Cary means “the dark one.” It takes its reference from the famous English-American actor Cary Grant.
18. Cassius
The Roman historian Cassius Dio was the influence behind this name. This unique and uncommon name means “hollow” and is of Latin origin.
19. Cesar
This is another name inspired by a great leader and activist. Cesar Chavez fought for better pay for the working class. He was the co-founder of the National Farm Workers Association. This name of Latin origin means “ruler.”
20. Charlie
The name is inspired by the greatest musical innovator and jazz saxophonist of the 20th century, Carlie Parker. He set the trend and influenced several music artists of the previous century. The name Charlie means “free man” and is of Old German origin.
Quick fact21. Charles
The name Charles is derived from the German name Karl, meaning “free man.” We seek our inspiration for this name from the English naturalist and geologist Charles Darwin.
22. Charlton
The name Charlton means “free peasant’s settlement” and is of Old English origin. The inspiration was the famous American actor and political activist Charlton Heston, who gained popularity by his role as Moses in the Biblical film The Ten Commandments.
23. Clark
The name is inspired by the King of Hollywood, Clark Gable. The name Clark is of Latin and English origin. It is an occupational name meaning “scribe.”
24. Claude
The name is inspired by the French impressionist painter Claude Monet. He was one of those few painters who transformed the form of French painting with the Impressionist Movement. The name Claude means “enclosure” and is of French origin.
Quick fact25. Cobb
Cobb is a name inspired by the vigilant American baseball player Ty Cobb. The name Cobb is a diminutive form of Jacob, which is a name of Hebrew origin and means “supplanter.”
26. Constantine
Image: IStock
The antique name is inspired by the Roman emperor of the same name. It means “steadfast” and has a Latin origin.
27. Cyrus
The Persian emperor Cyrus was an influential leader who modeled centralized administration to many leaders after his time. His name means “one who bestows care” and is of Persian origin.
28. Degas
The name Degas of French origin means “blessing.” Edgar Degas, the French impressionist, defined the ideas of centering through his paintings.
29. Desmond
Desmond Tutu was the first black African to become the Archbishop of Cape Town. Since a young age, he had been fighting for civil rights and apartheid. His name means “gracious defender” and is of Anglo-Saxon origin.
30. Dylan
The name got popular during the 20th century due to the famous and greatest songwriter of all time, Bob Dylan. The name Dylan is of Welsh origin and means “son of the sea.”
31. Edison
A name that is known well by the science community, Thomas Edison is the inventor of the incandescent electric bulb and the phonograph. Edison is a patronymic surname meaning “son of Edward” and is of Old English origin.
32. Edgar
Edgar means “wealthy spearman” in Anglo-Saxon origins. The name is inspired by the American writer, poet, and literary critic, Edgar Allan Poe. Although he had a short career as a writer, his captivating short stories and poems continue to motivate several writers, even today.
33. Erasmus
The Greek name Erasmus means “beloved.” Dutch philosopher Desiderius Erasmus who was the most influential and greatest thinker of his time, inspired us for this name.
34. Elie
Elie is a Hebrew origin name that means “God is my help.” The name is inspired by the Roman-American writer, Elie Wiesel. He dedicated his life to the genocide committed by the Nazis during World War II, which would be a key takeaway for your child from his story.
35. Elvis
Elvis Presley, the King of Rock and Roll, defined the music industry and is an influential historical figure. His name is of Old English origin and means “wise friend.”
36. Ernest
The American novelist Ernest Hemingway of The Old Man and the Sea is a literary icon whose name had to be on our list. Ernest means “resolute” and is of Old German origin.
37. Errol
Derived from the Old English name Earl, the name Errol means “nobleman.” The famous Australian-born actor Errol Flynn mesmerized the audience during the Golden Age of Hollywood, is our inspiration behind this name.
38. Fitzgerald
The American novelist Fitzgerald Scott is our inspiration. His short stories The Curious Case of Benjamin Button, The Great Gatsby, and Tender Is the Night are favorites. His name means “son of spear-ruler” in Old German and Old French.
39. Frank
The American gay rights activist Frank Kamany had to make it into our list of influential historical figures for his ceaseless efforts towards equality. His name is of Latin origin and means “free one.”
40. Franklin
The efforts that the former US president Franklin Roosevelt made towards the economic recovery are something one needs to take inspiration from. His name is of Middle English origin and means “free landholder.”
41. Franz
The writer of the realistic fantasy Metamorphosis, Franz Kafka, is an inspiration to many writers. He is the most celebrated author of Old German origin. The name Franz means “free man.”
42. Frederick
The name is inspired by the well-known abolitionist of American history, Frederick Douglas. His anti-slavery writings form a basis for the contemporary world. The name Frederick means “peaceful ruler” in Old German.
43. Galen
The Greek physician Galen of Pergamon must be the first notable person who would think of this name. It means “healer” and is of Greek origin.
44. Galileo
Derived from the Latin and Italian name Galilaeus, Galileo means “from Galilee.” It is inspired by the Italian astronomer Galileo Galili, who transformed with his invention of the telescope.
45. Gary
The natural actor Gary Cooper inspired us for this name. Gary is a name of Old English origin, meaning “spear.”
46. George
George means “farmer” and has Greek origins. The name is inspired by the American agricultural scientist George Washington Carver. George Carver, aka the Plant Doctor, strived for the betterment of farmers throughout his life.
47. Gertrude
The name rose to popularity after the American novelist and modern poet Gertrude Stein. The name is of Old German origin and means “strength.”
48. Goethe
Composed of the German element got, Goethe, transcribes as “godfather.” Our inspiration behind the name is the German poet and playwright Johann Wolfgang von Goethe.
49. Grant
This English and Gaelic origin name, Grant, means “tall.” Thanks to the 18th president of the US, the name needs no introduction, Ulysses S. Grant, who played a key role in leading America to victory during the Civil War.
50. Granville
This Old French origin name means “large town.” Our inspiration behind this name is notable American inventor Granville Woods.
51. Grover
This name is inspired by the first black pilot who flew the mail for the US Postal Service, Grover Cleaveland Nash. The name Grover is of Old German origin, meaning “hollow.”
52. Hamilton
The name Hamilton is of Old English origin, and means “crooked hill.” The indispensable companion of George Washington and one of the Founding Fathers of the United States, Alexander Hamilton, is our inspiration behind this name.
53. Harvey
Image: IStock
Harvey Milk, our inspiration behind this name, was the first openly gay elected official of California. To fight the discrimination against homosexuality, Harvey chose to live a life in power. His name means “worthy” in Old English and Old French.
54. Henri
If you love modern art, then this is the name for your baby. The French artist, Henri Matisse, had to make it into our list of influential historical figures. Henri means “house ruler” and has French origins.
55. Homer
When one thinks of Greek literature, Homer is one name they did not fail to miss. His creative works and mythical sagas such as the Iliad and the Odyssey were foundational to many Greek writers. The anime Homer means “security” with Greek origins.
56. Isaac
The name Isaac is of Hebrew origin and means “one who rejoices.” It is inspired by the mathematician, physicist, and astronomer Sir Isaac Newton. His theory of gravitation and laws of motion reshaped the scientific community.
57. James
The Irish novelist and short story writer James Joyce is an important writer of the 20th century as his contributions to the avant-garde movement have been regarded as influential. This name of Hebrew origin means “supplanter.”
58. Jackie
This Old English origin name means “God is gracious.” The name is inspired by the first African American baseball player Jackie Robinson, who is the embodiment of determination to many sportspeople.
59. Jasper
The depiction of the American flag, Jasper Johns, is the inspiration for this name. It is of Old English origin and means “treasurer.”
60. Jefferson
The name of the third US president, diplomat, and lawyer, Thomas Jefferson, is our inspiration. His patronymic surname is a worthy option even for a first name and means “son of Jeffrey.”
61. Jesse
Jesse is a name of Hebrew origin meaning “the Lord exists.” This name is inspired by the former US state senator for the District of Columbia, Jesse Jackson who fights for racial and economic justice.
62. Johann
The name Johann is most familiar with any classical music enthusiast. Johann Bach was the most regarded composer of the Baroque period. His name is of Hebrew origin, meaning “God is gracious.”
63. John
It is the name of a leader as it means a “winner” and has Latin origins. The name John is inspired by civil rights activist John Lewis. His struggle to end the legalized racial segregation played a prominent part in the Civil Rights Movement.
64. Langston
The name Langston is of Old English origin, meaning “long stone.” It is inspired by the American poet, playwright, novelist, and social activist, Hughes Langston who shaped American literature.
65. Lenny
The name Lenny means “hardy lion” and is of German origin. Inspired by the American stand-up comedian Lenny Bruce who diversified the entertainment industry with realistic humor, this name is a worthy one on our list.
66. Leonardo
The name Leonardo is known to all. His works Mona Lisa and The Last Supper are expressive and remarkable contributions to the world of art. His name is of Italian, Portuguese, and Spanish origins and means “brave lion.”
67. Leo
The Russian writer Leo Tolstoy is our inspiration behind this name. His masterpieces War and Peace and Anna Karenina explored humanity with his realistic fiction. His name is of Latin origin meaning, “lion.”
68. Leonidas
The Greek war leader, Leonidas I, whose participation was noteworthy during the Second Persian War, is a notable person with this name. Leonidas means “lion” and is of Greek origin.
69. Louis
The common English name of French origin means “famous warrior.” We seek inspiration for this name from Saint Louis IX of France, who strived for justice and peace.
70. Madison
The unisexual name, Madison, is inspired by the American Father of the Constitution and the fourth president of the US, James Madison. The Old English name is patronymic and means “son of Mathew.”
71. Malcolm
Another popular leader during the Civil Rights Movement was the African-American Muslim minister Malcolm X. His speech on the Ballot or the Bullet is inspirational to many even today. The name Malcolm is of Scottish and Gaelic origin, and it means “devotee of Saint Columba.”
72. Marcus
Image: IStock
The name is inspired by the Roman Emperor Marcus Aurelius, famously known as the five good emperors of Rome. The name is of Latin origin and is dedicated to the “Roman God of War, Mars.”
73. Mark
The father of literature, Mark Twain, had to make it to our list of the most inspirational historical figures. The classics Adventures of Tom Sawyer and Adventures of Huckleberry Finn are stories we cherish from time to time. Mark is a Latin origin name, meaning “God of War.”
74. Marshall
Marshall means “master of horses” and is of German origin. The former Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States, Marshall Thurgood, is our inspiration behind this name. His pursuit of racial justice was influential.
75. Leif
The unique name of Scandinavian origin means “heir.” The Icelandic explorer, Leif Erikson, is the notable personality behind this name.
76. Luther
It is a name one cannot miss while speaking of history due to the remarkable Martin Luther King Jr. The young American minister changed the world of many African Americans by promoting peaceful protests. The name Luther is of Old German origin and means “soldier of the people.”
77. Monroe
The Scottish and Gaelic origin topographical name means “mouth of the river Rotha.” The name is inspired by the fifth US president, James Monroe, whose time was defined as the Era of Good Feelings. We hope this name would bring the same fortune to your child too.
78. Myles
We take inspiration from the American educator Myles Horton. He influenced many leaders of the Civil Rights Movement. The name is of Latin origin and means “soldier.”
79. Neil
The name is inspired by the first man to ever walk on the moon, Neil Armstrong. His achievement is celebrated by the whole world even today and is an inspiring name for future space enthusiasts. Coincidentally, the name Neil means “champion” in its Gaelic and Irish origins.
80. Nelson
The name Nelson has Irish origins, and it means “son of a champion.” We take this name’s inspiration from the icon of social justice and democracy, Nelson Mandela. His anti-apartheid revolution would be a motivational path for your baby boy.
81. Nikola
The Slavic and Old Greek origin name is inspired by the Serbian and American inventor, Nikola Tesla, which means “victor of the people.” His story is motivational, and we wish that this name would inspire your child to never lose hope, even during the toughest of times.
82. Oscar
The flamboyant Irish writer of The Picture of Dorian Gray, Oscar Wilde, is our inspiration behind this name. His name has Irish and Gaelic origins, and it means “spear of the Gods.”
83. Pablo
After the popularity of the Spanish painter and sculptor Pablo Picasso, this name never stooped down in the trending charts. This name of Spanish origin means “humble.”
84. Paul
The name Paul means “humble” and is of Latin origin. It is the name inspired by the Boston patriot Paul Revere. He played a key role during the American Revolution by alerting the Colonial militia of the British invasion, the hymns of which are still sung.
85. Pedro
The name is inspired by the former Emperor of Brazil, Dom Pedro II. Under his leadership, Brazil witnessed prosperity, and it makes us wish that the name would do the same for your little one. Pedro is of Spanish and Portuguese origin and means “rock.”
86. Ralph
The name Ralph has German, Irish, Gaelic, and Old English origins. It means “famous wolf.” The prolific and famous professor, essayist Ralph Waldo Emerson is our inspiration behind this name.
87. Raphael
It means “God has healed” and has Portuguese origins. Our inspiration behind this name is the popular Italian Renaissance artist Raphael Sanzio.
88. Robert
The name Robert for your baby boy is inspired by one of the most famous poets of the 20th century, Robert Frost. His name justifies his popularity as it means “bright fame” in Old German.
89. Roy
The Gaelic name Roy is derived from the Scottish ‘Ruadh,’ which means “red.” This name is inspired by the American singer Roy Rogers.
90. Sallinger
This short and sweet name is inspired by the American writer, J.D. Sallinger. His book Catcher in the Rye and Nine Stories is still a fan favorite. The name Sallinger is of Hebrew origin, meaning “peace.”
91. Seneca
The Roman philosopher Lucius Annaeus Seneca, one of the most intellectual figures, inspired us for this name. His name means “people of the standing rock” and is of Latin origin.
92. Shel
Of Old English origin, the name Shel is the diminutive form of Sheldon or Shelly, and it means “steep valley.” We take inspiration for this name from Shel Silversteen, the famous children’s poet, writer, and cartoonist.
93. Stephen
Stephan is a name inspired by the man who challenged misfortunes to become a role model to the world. His works on relativity theory and quantum mechanics set a foundation for physics, and hence, would be a great name choice. His name means “crown” in Greek.
94. Theodore
Image: Shutterstock
Theodore Roosevelt is our inspiration behind this name. He promoted the conversation movement and promoted fair labor unions. Lovingly known as Teddy, the name Theodore means “gift of God” and is of Ancient Greek origin.
95. Thomas
The name Thomas means “twin” and has Hebrew origins. We take inspiration for this name from the English-American philosopher, activist, and revolutionary Thomas Paine. He advocated American independence, and hence, would be an ideal patriotic name for a baby.
96. Tyler
The name Tyler of Old English and Old French origin means “owner of a tavern.” The notable historical figure behind this name is the tenth US president, John Tyler.
97. Walt
The poet of the famous Leaves of Grass, Walt Whitman, is a favorite of most English literature aficionados. His name is of Old German origin that means “commander of the army.”
98. William
The name is inspired by the famous English playwright William Shakespeare, who shaped the world of English literature for centuries to come. William is a name of Old English origin and means “strong-willed warrior.”
99. Winston
The story of the former Prime Minister of the United Kingdom is empowering. He successfully led Britain through World War II and hence is a name that would remain in trend for a long time. This name of Old English origin means “joyful stone.”
100. Yuri
It is a name that is bound to be loved by space and science enthusiasts, referring to the Soviet Cosmonaut, Yuri Gagarin. The name is of Russian origin and means “farmer.”
Diverse Origins Of Historical Names
Our list showcases several names drawn various cultural backgrounds, including Hebrew, Latin, and Anglo-Saxon heritages. This mix highlights how names serve as cultural markers that transcend time and geography. Each name carries its unique meaning and significance and offers a glimpse into the traditions and values of the societies from which they originate. These timeless names help connect us to our ancestors and the stories woven into our shared human experience.
Tips For Choosing A Historical Name
Choosing a historical name for your child can be a meaningful decision that connects them to the past. Here are some practical tips to consider.
- Research the name’s meaning: Understand the name’s literal meaning and its connotations.
- Explore the name’s origin: Look into the cultural or geographical roots of the name. Knowing where it comes from can enhance its significance and allow you to celebrate that heritage.
- Check cultural significance: Assess how the name has been perceived in different cultures and eras.
- Test pronunciation and spelling: Choose a name that is easy to pronounce and spell to avoid potential frustration for your child.
Discover More Names
When you have to choose a name for your baby, a few hundreds of names may not be just enough. Keep digging our mine of baby names until you find that one precious gem.
Illustration: Historical Boy Names To Inspire Your Name Search
Image: Stable Diffusion/MomJunction Design Team
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Are there any negative aspects to choosing a historical name?
There are no major drawbacks to choosing a historical name for your baby. However, parents must ensure that they do thorough research on the name they decide to keep. They must consider factors such as the name’s meaning, sound, history, and how socially acceptable the name is.
2. How do you incorporate a historical name into a modern baby name?
A historical baby name can be incorporated into a modern baby name by using the historical name as a middle name, given name, or even as a nickname.
3. What are some famous historical names that have seen a resurgence in popularity?
In recent years, several famous historical names have experienced a resurgence in popularity, reflecting a desire among modern parents to honor influential figures from the past. Names like Lincoln, Theodore, and Martin have become increasingly popular. These names honor the achievements and values held dear by these notable historical figures (3).
Historical figures find worldwide recognition, and you may consider naming your child after someone who exemplifies virtues and inspire your child throughout their lives. Their contributions have left a significant impact on people’s lives. If you are a science enthusiast, you may go for names such as Albert, Edison, or Nikola. William, Gertrude, Robert, or Langston may fascinate patrons of Literature. Our compilation of elite and aristocratic names includes geniuses in almost every field. We are sure that these historical boy names will intrigue you to use one of them for your little prince.
Infographic: Famous Historical Boy Names
Naming their child is always one of the most exciting and crucial decisions of every parent’s journey. You may want to choose a moniker that may eventually complement their personality. If you are brainstorming about names for your baby boy, this list of historical names may make your job easier. Illustration: Momjunction Design Team
Key Pointers
- If you want your son to follow the path of greatness, historical boy names may have the right inspiration for you.
- These names are related to men with vast cultural impact: rulers, scientific geniuses, warriors, academicians, artistic legends, leaders, and visionaries.
- When your child learns about the person who inspired his name, he will feel motivated to reach great heights himself.
- Some famous historical boy names are Albert, Leonardo, Nikola, William, and Benjamin.
References
- American Heroes;
https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2021/01/22/2021-01643/building-the-national-garden-of-american-heroes# - Key Achievements of Galileo Spacecraft;
https://solarsystem.nasa.gov/missions/galileo/overview/ - Popular Baby Names;
https://www.ssa.gov/oact/babynames/
Community Experiences
Join the conversation and become a part of our nurturing community! Share your stories, experiences, and insights to connect with fellow parents.
Read full bio of Shikha Thakur
Read full bio of Srija Chanda Burman
Read full bio of Praggya Joshi
