The name Fausto originated from the Latin name Faustus, which means "lucky" or "fortunate." It was a common Roman name during the ancient Roman era, and its earliest known use dates back to the 1st century AD.

The name Fausto gained popularity during the Middle Ages, particularly in Italy, where it was frequently used among the nobility and upper classes. One of the earliest recorded examples of the name Fausto comes from the 5th century, when a Roman noble named Faustus Albinus Basilius held a prominent position in the court of the Western Roman Emperor Anthemius.

Fausto was also the name of a famous 4th-century Roman saint and martyr, Saint Faustus of Riez, who was born around 350 AD and served as the Bishop of Riez in what is now southeastern France. His life and teachings were documented in various religious texts, contributing to the name's widespread use among early Christians.

In literature, the name Fausto is most famously associated with the tragic figure of Doctor Faustus, the protagonist of the renowned play by Christopher Marlowe, published in 1604. The play was inspired by the legend of a German scholar who sold his soul to the devil in exchange for knowledge and power.

One of the earliest recorded historical figures named Fausto was Fausto Veranzio, an Italian Renaissance polymath born in 1551. He was a notable scholar, inventor, and bishop who made significant contributions to the fields of engineering and mechanics.

Another notable figure was Fausto Sozzi, an Italian painter and engraver born in 1592, known for his religious artworks and contributions to the Baroque art movement in Italy.

During the 19th century, Fausto Campana (1819-1870) was an Italian politician and revolutionary who played a significant role in the Italian unification movement, fighting alongside Giuseppe Garibaldi.

Fausto Coppi (1919-1960) was an Italian professional cyclist widely regarded as one of the greatest cyclists of all time, winning the Giro d'Italia five times and the Tour de France twice in the 1940s and 1950s.

The name Fausto has maintained its presence throughout history, with various notable individuals bearing the name across different fields, including literature, art, politics, and sports.