Felipe is a male given name that originated from the ancient Greek name Philippos. It is derived from the Greek words philos, meaning "lover" or "friend," and hippos, meaning "horse." The name was introduced to the Iberian peninsula during the Roman conquest and occupation, taking on the Spanish spelling of Felipe.

The earliest recorded use of the name Felipe dates back to the 3rd century AD in Roman texts and inscriptions found in the Iberian Peninsula. It gained popularity during the Middle Ages and the Renaissance period, particularly in Spain and Portugal.

One of the most notable historical figures with the name Felipe was Felipe II, also known as Philip II of Spain, who reigned from 1556 to 1598. He was a powerful monarch who ruled over a vast empire that included Spain, the Netherlands, parts of Italy, and various territories in the Americas.

Another prominent figure was Felipe V, the first Bourbon king of Spain, who ruled from 1700 to 1746. His reign marked the transition of power from the Habsburg dynasty to the House of Bourbon, and he played a significant role in the War of the Spanish Succession.

In the realm of literature, Felipe Alfau (1902-1999) was a Spanish-American writer and poet known for his experimental novel "Chromos," which was rediscovered and published posthumously in 1990.

Felipe Guaman Poma de Ayala (c. 1535-1616) was a Quechua nobleman and writer from the Viceroyalty of Peru. He is renowned for his work "El Primer Nueva Corónica y Buen Gobierno," a detailed chronicle of the Inca Empire and the Spanish conquest.

Felipe Calderón (born 1962) is a Mexican politician who served as the President of Mexico from 2006 to 2012. He was a prominent figure in the ongoing efforts against drug cartels and organized crime during his presidency.