The name Anton has its origins in the Roman family name Antonius, derived from the Greek word "antyonios" meaning "priceless" or "invaluable." It is believed to have emerged as a given name in the early centuries of the Roman Empire, possibly inspired by the famous Roman general and statesman Mark Antony.

The name gained widespread popularity in Eastern Europe, particularly in Russia, where it was adopted in its Slavic form, Anton. In the Russian Orthodox tradition, Anton was associated with the early Christian martyr Saint Anthony the Great, who lived in Egypt in the 3rd and 4th centuries.

One of the earliest known bearers of the name Anton was Anton Pavlovich Shuvalov, a Russian military leader and statesman who lived in the 18th century (1730-1796). Another notable figure was Anton Rubinstein, a Russian pianist, composer, and conductor who lived from 1829 to 1894 and was widely regarded as one of the greatest pianists of his time.

In the realm of literature, Anton Chekhov (1860-1904) was a renowned Russian playwright and short-story writer, widely considered one of the greatest writers of the modern era. His works, including plays like "The Cherry Orchard" and short stories like "The Lady with the Dog," have had a lasting impact on literature worldwide.

The name Anton also has a rich history in the arts, with notable figures like Anton Raphael Mengs (1728-1779), a German painter and a leading figure in the Neoclassical movement. In the field of music, Anton Bruckner (1824-1896) was an Austrian composer known for his grandiose symphonies that greatly influenced the development of Romantic music.

Outside of Eastern Europe, the name Anton has also been used, though less commonly. One notable example is Anton van Leeuwenhoek (1632-1723), a Dutch scientist who is considered the father of microbiology for his pioneering work in microscopy and the study of microorganisms.

Throughout history, the name Anton has been associated with individuals who have made significant contributions across various fields, from military and politics to arts, literature, and science. Its enduring popularity can be attributed to its rich cultural heritage and the accomplishments of its notable bearers.