The name Bernie originates from the ancient Germanic language, where it was derived from the word "bern," meaning "bear." This name was particularly popular during the Middle Ages in various regions of Europe, including Germany, France, and England.

One of the earliest recorded uses of the name Bernie can be traced back to the 8th century, when it appeared in the Frankish annals as the name of a nobleman. In the 9th century, a Benedictine monk named Bernie of Menthon founded the hospices on the Great St. Bernard Pass in the Swiss Alps, providing shelter and aid to travelers.

During the High Middle Ages, the name Bernie gained popularity among the nobility and was borne by several prominent figures. One notable example is Bernard of Clairvaux (1090-1153), a French abbot and one of the most influential figures in the Cistercian order. His writings and sermons had a profound impact on the religious and intellectual life of his time.

Another famous bearer of the name was Bernard de Ventadour (c. 1135-1195), a renowned troubadour and poet from the region of Limousin in France. His lyrical compositions were widely celebrated and contributed significantly to the development of courtly love poetry.

In the 16th century, the name Bernie was associated with Bernard Palissy (c. 1510-1590), a French potter and naturalist known for his innovative glazing techniques and contributions to the field of natural history.

During the 19th century, the name Bernie gained popularity in the United States, particularly among Irish and German immigrants. One notable figure was Bernard Baruch (1870-1965), an American financier and adviser to several presidents, who played a crucial role in the economic policies of the early 20th century.

Other notable individuals with the name Bernie include Bernie Ecclestone (born 1930), the former chief executive of the Formula One Group, and Bernie Madoff (1938-2021), the infamous American financier who orchestrated one of the largest Ponzi schemes in history.