Choosing a baby boy name with a historical significance can inspire children to value honesty and moral principles.

Parents choose traditional baby boy names for their kids because they hope they will live honorable and wise lives. Historical figures are highly respected for their important contributions. These figures have influenced the way we live today. Many historical figures teach us important values like kindness, empathy, courage, and determination. You may have searched history books for baby boy name ideas for your son. That’s why we made this list of baby names of respected revolutionaries, teachers, leaders, and artists who can continue to inspire your children to do great things in life.

Top Historical Boy Names, With Meanings

1. Abraham

Abraham Lincoln, a former US president who ended slavery, is an important historical figure. This baby boy name comes from Hebrew and means ‘exalted father.’

2. Adams

The surname Adams has English and Scottish roots and is a patronymic name meaning ‘son of Adams.’ It is derived from the name of the second president of the United States, John Adams.

3. Albert

Albert Einstein, a Theoretical Physicist, is the inspiration behind this. He became known as the foundation of Modern Physics because of his Theory of Relativity. The baby boy name Albert comes from Old German and means ‘noble.’

4. Alexander

The gender-neutral baby name is influenced by the Scottish inventor Alexander Graham Bell. Its roots come from the Latin and Greek name Alexandros, which translates to ‘protector of men.’

5. Alfred

Notable people with the name Alfred include Alfred Hitchcock and Alfred Nobel. The baby boy name Alfred comes from Old English and means ‘elf or magical counsel.’ The inspiration for this name comes from King Alfred, who was known for his dedication to education.

6. Ali

The baby boy name Ali comes from Arabic and means ‘exalted.’ It was inspired by the famous American boxer and social activist Mohammad Ali. Naming your baby boy Ali could be a source of inspiration due to Mohammad Ali’s perseverance.

7. Amadeus

This baby boy name was inspired by the famous Austrian composer Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. It comes from Latin roots and translates to ‘someone who loves God.’

8. Anselm

Anselm, an old and traditional baby name, was derived from an Italian philosopher with the same name. This baby boy name signifies ‘with divine protection’ and has its roots in Old German.

9. Antoninus

Anton is another version of the baby name Anthony, which means ‘priceless one.’ It could be a sophisticated choice for your child’s name if you like it. This baby boy name is influenced by the Roman Emperor, Antoninus Pius, who was considered one of the five good emperors of Rome.

10. Archimedes

Archimedes was a famous ancient Greek mathematician, physicist, engineer, inventor, and astronomer. The world of physics was transformed by Archimedes, a Greek mathematician, making him a noteworthy figure in our collection of historical baby names. His name, of Greek origin, signifies ‘master planner.’

11. Arthur

The name ‘Sherlock’ was inspired by the famous detective novels created by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. It has Irish, Celtic, and Gaelic roots.

12. Audie

This baby boy name for our inspiration comes from Audie Murphy, the most decorated soldier in American history. ‘Noble strength’ is the meaning of the name, which originates from Old English.

13. Baldwin

This baby boy name is taken from the American writer James Baldwin, who changed literature by discussing social and racial issues in his writing. The baby name Baldwin comes from the German language and means ‘courageous companion.’

14. Benjamin

Taking inspiration from one of America’s Founding Fathers, Benjamin Franklin, this baby name is perfect for those who love their country. The baby boy name Benjamin has roots in the Bible and signifies ‘son of the right hand.’

15. Blaise

This baby boy name has an interesting French and Latin background and it means ‘stutter.’ The mathematician and philosopher Blaise Pascal is the one who made this name famous for his inspiring work.

15. Booker

Booker is a name that reflects someone who works with books. Booker T. Washington was a teacher and a leader who advocated for African-American rights in the 1870s. Giving your child the name Booker could inspire them to pursue equality in their life.

17. Cary

Originally from Celtic roots, the baby boy name Cary signifies someone who is dark in color. It is inspired by the well-known English-American actor Cary Grant.

18. Cassius

This baby boy name was inspired by the Roman historian Cassius Dio. This special and rare baby name comes from Latin and means ’empty.’

19. Cesar

This baby boy name is inspired by a famous leader and activist, Cesar Chavez, who fought for higher wages for workers. He helped establish the National Farm Workers Association. The Latin origin of this name means ‘ruler’.

20. Charlie

This baby boy name comes from the famous jazz saxophonist, Charlie Parker, who was a major influence on other musicians in the 20th century. The name Charlie means ‘free man’ and has its roots in Old German.

21. Charles

The baby boy name Charles comes from the German name Karl, which means ‘free man.’ We chose this baby name because we’re inspired by the English naturalist and geologist Charles Darwin.

22. Charlton

The bay name Charlton originates from Old English and means ‘free peasant’s settlement.’ It was inspired by the well-known American actor and political activist Charlton Heston, best known for his portrayal of Moses in the movie The Ten Commandments.

23. Clark

The baby boy name Clark is inspired by the famous Hollywood actor, Clark Gable. The baby name Clark comes from Latin and English origins. It was an occupational name that meant ‘scribe.’

24. Claude

The name comes from Claude Monet, a famous French painter known for his role in the Impressionist Movement. Claude is a French name that means ‘enclosure.’

25. Cobb

Cobb is a baby name that was influenced by the careful American baseball player Ty Cobb. The baby boy name Cobb is a shorter version of Jacob, which comes from Hebrew and means ‘supplanter.’

26. Constantine

The baby name is based on the Roman emperor with the same name. It means ‘firm’ and comes from Latin.

27. Cyrus

The influential leader Cyrus, who was the emperor of Persia, established a centralized administration that inspired many future leaders. His name, which comes from Persian origins, means ‘one who bestows care.’

28. Degas

The French baby boy name Degas means ‘blessing.’ Edgar Degas, a French impressionist artist, portrayed the concept of focus in his paintings.

29. Desmond

Desmond Tutu was the first black African to become the Archbishop of Cape Town. From a young age, he fought for civil rights and against apartheid. His name, ‘gracious defender,’ comes from Anglo-Saxon roots.

30. Dylan

This baby boy name became well-known in the 20th century because of Bob Dylan, a famous songwriter. Dylan is a Welsh baby name that means ‘son of the sea.’

31. Edison

The science community is very familiar with Thomas Edison, who is famous for inventing the incandescent light bulb and the phonograph. His last name, Edison, means ‘son of Edward’ and comes from Old English.

32. Edgar

Edgar originates from Anglo-Saxon roots and means ‘wealthy spearman.’ This baby boy name is influenced by the writings of American author Edgar Allan Poe, who had a brief but impactful writing career. His engaging short stories and poems still inspire many writers today.

33. Erasmus

This baby boy name Erasmus comes from Greek and means ‘beloved.’ A famous Dutch philosopher named Desiderius Erasmus, who was very important and influential during his time, inspired us to choose this name.

34. Elie

Elie is a name of Hebrew origin that translates to ‘God is my help.’ This baby boy name was influenced by the writer Elie Wiesel, who focused on the Holocaust and Nazi atrocities in World War II.

35. Elvis

Elvis was a famous American singer and actor known as the ‘King of Rock and Roll’. Elvis Presley, who is known as the King of Rock and Roll, had a major impact on the music industry and is an important historical figure. This baby boy name comes from Old English and translates to ‘wise friend.’

36. Ernest

Ernest Hemingway, the author of The Old Man and the Sea, is a famous figure in literature and was important to include on our list. The baby boy name Ernest comes from Old German and means ‘resolute.’

37. Errol

The baby boy name Errol comes from the Old English name Earl and it means ‘nobleman.’ The actor Errol Flynn, who was born in Australia and captivated audiences during the Golden Age of Hollywood, is the inspiration for this name.

38. Fitzgerald

The American writer Fitzgerald Scott is who we look up to. We love his short stories The Curious Case of Benjamin Button, The Great Gatsby, and Tender Is the Night. This baby boy name translates to ‘son of spear-ruler’ in Old German and Old French.

39. Frank

Frank Kameny, a well-known figure in the fight for gay rights in America, deserves recognition for his ongoing work towards equality. His name, which comes from Latin, translates to ‘free one.’

40. Franklin

Former US president Franklin Roosevelt’s efforts towards economic recovery are an inspiration for others to follow. His name originated from Middle English and means ‘free landholder.’

41. Franz

Franz Kafka, the author of the realistic fantasy novel Metamorphosis, has inspired many writers. He is a highly acclaimed author with German heritage, and his name means ‘free man.’

42. Frederick

The name Frederick Douglas is named after the famous American abolitionist. Frederick Douglas was known for his writings against slavery, which still influence society today. The baby boy name Frederick comes from Old German and means ‘peaceful ruler.’

43. Galen

Galen was a prominent Greek physician and philosopher who lived during the second century AD. The first person we know of who might have come up with this baby name is the Greek doctor Galen from Pergamon.

44. Galileo

Galileo was an Italian astronomer, physicist, and engineer, who is widely considered as the ‘father of observational astronomy’ and the ‘father of modern physics’. Galileo is a baby boy name that comes from Latin and Italian, meaning ‘from Galilee.’ This baby name was inspired by the famous Italian astronomer Galileo Galili, who is known for his creation of the telescope.

45. Gary

This baby boy name was inspired by the actor Gary Cooper. Gary is an Old English name that means ‘spear.’

46. George

The baby name George comes from Greek and means ‘farmer.’ It was influenced by the famous American agricultural scientist George Washington Carver. George Carver, also known as the Plant Doctor, dedicated his life to improving the lives of farmers.

47. Gertrude

This baby boy name became well-known because of the American writer Gertrude Stein. It comes from Old German and signifies ‘strength.’

48. Goethe

The baby boy name Goethe comes from the German word ‘got’ which means ‘godfather.’ We chose this baby name because we were inspired by the famous German poet and playwright, Johann Wolfgang von Goethe.

49. Grant

The baby boy name Grant, which has roots in English and Gaelic, means ‘tall.’ It gained recognition thanks to Ulysses S. Grant, the 18th president of the United States, who played a crucial role in leading the country to victory in the Civil War.

50. Granville

This baby boy name comes from Old French and means ‘big city.’ We chose this baby name because we were inspired by the famous American inventor Granville Woods.

51. Grover

The baby boy name Grover is inspired by the first black pilot who flew mail for the US Postal Service, Grover Cleaveland Nash. Grover is an Old German name that means ‘hollow.’

52. Hamilton

The baby boy name Hamilton comes from Old English and it means ‘crooked hill.’ Alexander Hamilton, a key figure in US history and a close associate of George Washington, is the inspiration for this name.

53. Harvey

The baby boy name Harvey means ‘worthy’ in both Old English and Old French languages.

54. Henri

If you are a fan of modern art, then this baby boy name is perfect for your baby. Henri Matisse, a famous French artist, is an influential historical figure. The baby name Henri means ‘house ruler’ and comes from French origins.

55. Homer

When people think about Greek literature, Homer is a baby boy name that always comes up. His famous works like the Iliad and the Odyssey were very important for other Greek writers. The baby name Homer comes from Greek and means ‘security’.

56. Isaac

The baby boy name Isaac comes from Hebrew and means ‘one who rejoices.’ It is linked to the famous mathematician, physicist, and astronomer Sir Isaac Newton, known for his groundbreaking theories on gravity and motion that had a major impact on the world of science.

57. James

James Joyce, an Irish author who wrote novels and short stories, is considered a significant writer of the 20th century because his work in the avant-garde movement has had a big impact. The baby name James comes from Hebrew and means ‘supplanter.’

58. Jackie

The baby boy name Jackie, which originated from Old English, means ‘God is gracious.’ It was inspired by Jackie Robinson, the first African American baseball player, who is seen as a symbol of determination by many athletes.

59. Jasper

This baby boy name is inspired by Jasper Johns, who depicted the American flag. It originates from Old English and means ‘treasurer.’

60. Jefferson

Thomas Jefferson, who was a lawyer, diplomat, and the third president of the United States, serves as our inspiration. His last name, which comes from his father’s name Jeffrey, is a great choice even for a first name.

61. Jesse

The baby boy name Jesse comes from Hebrew and means ‘the Lord exists.’ It is based on the advocacy work of Jesse Jackson, a former US state senator from Washington, DC, who fights for justice in terms of race and economics.

62. Johann

Johann is a well-known baby boy name in the world of classical music. Johann Bach was highly respected as a composer during the Baroque period. The baby name Johann has its roots in Hebrew, and it means ‘God is gracious.’

63. John

The baby boy name ‘John’ comes from Latin and means ‘winner’, often associated with being a leader. It was influenced by civil rights activist John Lewis, who fought against racial segregation during the Civil Rights Movement.

64. Langston

The baby boy name Langston comes from Old English and means ‘long stone.’ It was inspired by Hughes Langston, an American poet, playwright, novelist, and social activist who had a big impact on American literature.

65. Lenny

The baby boy name Lenny comes from Germany and means ‘strong lion’. It was influenced by the comedian Lenny Bruce, who brought a new kind of comedy to entertainment. This baby boy name is considered valuable to us because of its association with Lenny Bruce.

66. Leonardo

Leonardo is a famous artist whose most well-known works are Mona Lisa and The Last Supper. His name comes from Italian, Portuguese, and Spanish roots and means ‘brave lion.’

67. Leo

The baby boy name we chose is inspired by the famous Russian writer Leo Tolstoy, known for his works War and Peace and Anna Karenina which delve deep into the human experience through realistic storytelling. Tolstoy’s name comes from Latin and means ‘lion.’

68. Leonidas

Leonidas was a king of the ancient Greek city-state of Sparta, who led the Spartans at the Battle of Thermopylae. Leonidas I, a prominent Greek military leader known for his role in the Second Persian War, is a famous figure with this name. The baby boy name Leonidas comes from the Greek word meaning ‘lion.’

69. Louis

The popular English baby boy name with French roots translates to ‘famous warrior.’ We found this baby name inspiring from the efforts of Saint Louis IX of France, who worked towards justice and peace.

70. Madison

Madison, a unisex baby name, was taken from James Madison, the American Father of the Constitution and fourth president of the United States. This English name is a patronym that translates to ‘son of Mathew.’

71. Malcolm

Malcolm X, an influential leader during the Civil Rights Movement, delivered a powerful speech called the Ballot or the Bullet that continues to inspire people. The baby boy name Malcolm comes from Scottish and Gaelic roots, and it translates to ‘devotee of Saint Columba.’

72. Marcus

The Roman Emperor Marcus Aurelius, one of the five good emperors of Rome, inspired the name. It is a Latin baby boy name dedicated to the Roman God of War, Mars.

73. Mark

Mark Twain, known as the father of literature, is one of the most inspiring historical figures. We often treasure his famous books, such as The Adventures of Tom Sawyer and The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn. The baby boy name ‘Mark’ has Latin roots and means ‘God of War.’

74. Marshall

Marshall comes from the German language and means ‘master of horses.’ We chose this baby boy name in honor of Marshall Thurgood, a former Associate Justice of the Supreme Court, who was known for his efforts towards racial equality.

75. Leif

This special baby boy name, which comes from Scandinavia, means ‘heir.’ Leif Erikson, an explorer from Iceland, is known for being associated with this name.

76. Luther

One cannot ignore the name Martin Luther King Jr. when discussing history because of his significant influence. This young American minister made a huge impact on the lives of many African Americans through his advocacy of peaceful protests. The baby boy name Luther comes from Old German and signifies a warrior for the people.

77. Monroe

The baby boy name comes from Scottish and Gaelic roots and it means ‘mouth of the river Rotha.’ It was named after the fifth US president, James Monroe, known for his time as the Era of Good Feelings. We wish this baby name brings good luck to your child as well.

78. Myles

We are inspired by Myles Horton, an American educator who had an impact on many leaders in the Civil Rights Movement. The baby boy name ‘Myles’ comes from Latin and it means ‘soldier.’

79. Neil

This baby boy name was inspired by the first person to walk on the moon, Neil Armstrong, whose accomplishment is still celebrated worldwide. It serves as a source of inspiration for those interested in space. Interestingly, the baby boy name Neil means ‘champion’ in Gaelic and Irish.

80. Nelson

Nelson is a name with Irish roots that translates to ‘son of a champion.’ We were inspired by Nelson Mandela, a symbol of social justice and democracy, when choosing this baby name. His fight against apartheid could serve as motivation for your son.

81. Nikola

This baby boy name of Slavic and Ancient Greek origin comes from the Serbian and American inventor, Nikola Tesla, and it means ‘winner of the people.’ We hope that hearing his story will encourage your child to stay hopeful, even in difficult times.

82. Oscar

This baby boy name inspired by Oscar Wilde, a charismatic Irish writer known for The Picture of Dorian Gray. Wilde’s name comes from Irish and Gaelic roots and translates to ‘spear of the Gods.’

83. Pablo

Ever since the Spanish artist Pablo Picasso became famous, the baby name has remained popular. This baby boy name, which is of Spanish descent, means ‘humble.’

84. Paul

This baby boy name Paul comes from Latin and means ‘humble’. It was inspired by the Boston hero Paul Revere, who warned the Colonial militia about the British invasion during the American Revolution. The songs about his bravery are still popular today.

85. Pedro

The baby boy name comes from the ex-Emperor of Brazil, Dom Pedro II. He brought prosperity to Brazil during his rule, and we hope this baby name will bring the same luck to your child. Pedro is a baby boy name of Spanish and Portuguese descent, and it means ‘rock.’

86. Ralph

The baby boy name Ralph comes from German, Irish, Gaelic, and Old English origins, and it means ‘famous wolf.’ We were inspired by the well-known professor and essayist Ralph Waldo Emerson.

87. Raphael

This baby boy name means ‘God has healed’ and comes from Portuguese roots. We chose this baby name because we were inspired by the famous Italian Renaissance artist Raphael Sanzio.

88. Robert

Robert is a popular name for baby boys because it is the same name as famous poet Robert Frost. The baby name Robert means ‘bright fame’ in Old German, which suits the poet’s popularity.

89. Roy

The baby name Roy comes from the Gaelic word ‘Ruadh’ in Scottish, which means red. This baby boy name was chosen in honor of the famous American singer, Roy Rogers.

90. Sallinger

The baby boy name ‘Sallinger’ is short and sweet, and it was inspired by the American writer J.D. Salinger. His book ‘Catcher in the Rye’ and ‘Nine Stories’ are still popular among fans. The baby name ‘Sallinger’ comes from Hebrew and means ‘peace.’

91. Senec

This baby boy name for our list was inspired by the Roman philosopher, Lucius Annaeus Seneca, who was known for his intelligence. Seneca’s name originated from Latin and means ‘people of the standing rock.’

92. Shel

The baby boy name Shel comes from Old English and is short for Sheldon or Shelly. It means ‘steep valley.’ We got the idea of this baby name from Shel Silversteen, a well-known children’s poet, writer, and cartoonist.

93. Stephen

Stephan is a baby name that honors a man who overcame obstacles and became a role model to many. His research in physics, particularly in relativity theory and quantum mechanics, contributed greatly to the field. The baby name Stephan means ‘crown’ in Greek, making it a meaningful and fitting choice.

94. Theodore

The inspiration for this baby boy name comes from Theodore Roosevelt, who supported conservation efforts and fair labor unions. He was affectionately called Teddy and the baby name Theodore means ‘gift of God’ in Ancient Greek.

95. Thomas

The baby boy name Thomas comes from the Hebrew word for ‘twin.’ We got the idea for this baby name from Thomas Paine, a famous English-American philosopher and activist. He supported American independence, making Thomas a good patriotic choice for a baby’s name.

96. Tyler

The baby boy name Tyler has its roots in Old English and Old French and it means ‘owner of a tavern.’ One famous person with the name Tyler is the tenth president of the United States, John Tyler.

97. Walt

Walt Whitman, who wrote the well-known poetry collection Leaves of Grass, is loved by many fans of English literature. His name has roots in Old German and means ‘leader of the army.’

98. William

This baby boy name is inspired by the well-known English writer William Shakespeare, who influenced English literature for many years to come. William is an Old English baby name that means ‘strong-willed warrior.’

99. Winston

Winston is a character in George Orwell’s novel ‘1984’. The tale of the ex-Prime Minister of the UK is inspiring. He guided Britain during World War II and will be remembered for a long time. This baby boy name, of Old English descent, translates to ‘joyful stone.’

100. Yuri

It is a baby name that space and science fans are likely to appreciate, as it refers to Yuri Gagarin, the Soviet Cosmonaut. This baby boy name comes from Russia and translates to ‘farmer.’

Famous people are known all over the world, so you might want to name your child after someone who embodies good qualities and can be a source of inspiration throughout their life. The good deeds of these individuals have made a big difference in the lives of others. If you love science, you could choose names like Albert, Edison, or Nikola. William, Gertrude, Robert, or Langston might capture the attention of literature lovers. Our list features brilliant individuals from a variety of fields. We believe that these historical baby names for boys will spark your interest in using one for your son.

Explore additional baby names

When selecting a name for your baby, you may find that a few hundred options are not sufficient. Keep searching through a wide variety of baby names until you discover the perfect one.

Illustration: Boy Names To Inspire Your Baby Boy Name Search

Deciding on a name for your baby is a big and exciting decision for parents. Parents often hope that the name they choose will fit their child’s personality. If you are trying to think of names for your baby boy, this list of historical names might help you out.