The name Crispin has its origins in the Latin name Crispinus, which was derived from the word "crispus" meaning "curled" or "curly-haired". It was a common Roman family name used during ancient times.

The name rose to prominence during the early Christian era, largely due to the veneration of St. Crispin and St. Crispinian, two Roman brothers who were martyred around 287 CE. According to legend, they were shoemakers who traveled to Gaul (modern-day France) to preach Christianity and were ultimately executed for their faith.

One of the earliest recorded uses of the name Crispin comes from the early medieval period. In the year 1415, the Battle of Agincourt, a major English victory in the Hundred Years' War, took place on St. Crispin's Day, which is celebrated on October 25th. This significant historical event was immortalized in William Shakespeare's play "Henry V", where the famous St. Crispin's Day speech rallied the outnumbered English troops before their triumph over the French army.

Among notable individuals named Crispin throughout history are Crispin de Passe (1565-1637), a Dutch engraver and print publisher who produced numerous portraits of prominent figures during the Dutch Golden Age. Another was Crispin de Milthene (1596-1688), a French playwright and poet who wrote several tragedies and comedies during the 17th century.

In the realm of art, Crispin van den Broeck (1523-1591) was a Flemish painter known for his religious works and portraits. Meanwhile, in literature, Crispin Hellion Craven (1909-1976) was an American novelist and screenwriter who wrote several successful novels and adapted some of them for the big screen.

More recently, Crispin Glover (born 1964) is an American actor, filmmaker, and author, best known for his roles in films such as "Back to the Future" and his unique and eccentric persona. His distinctive name has contributed to his iconic status in popular culture.