The name Guadalupe has its origins in the Spanish language and culture. It is a compound of the Arabic words "wadi" meaning valley and "lupus" meaning wolf, resulting in the meaning "valley of the wolf" or "wolf valley." The name is closely associated with the Virgin Mary, specifically the Our Lady of Guadalupe, who is said to have appeared to Juan Diego, an indigenous Mexican, in 1531.

The earliest recorded use of the name Guadalupe dates back to the 12th century in Spain, where it was initially used as a place name. Over time, it gained popularity as a given name, particularly in Catholic communities, due to its association with the Virgin Mary.

One of the earliest known historical references to the name Guadalupe is in the "Nican Mopohua," a 16th-century text that recounts the apparitions of the Virgin Mary to Juan Diego on the hill of Tepeyac in Mexico. This account played a significant role in the spread of the name Guadalupe throughout the Spanish-speaking world.

Throughout history, several notable individuals have borne the name Guadalupe. One of the earliest was Guadalupe Victoria (1786-1843), a Mexican military leader and the first president of Mexico after its independence from Spain. Another famous bearer of the name was Guadalupe Posada (1852-1913), a Mexican printmaker and illustrator renowned for his satirical caricatures and depictions of skeletons, which became iconic symbols of the Day of the Dead celebrations.

In the literary world, Guadalupe Dueñas (1910-2002) was a Chilean writer and journalist who wrote extensively about social issues and the experiences of women in Latin America. Guadalupe Amor (1920-2000) was a Mexican actress and singer who appeared in numerous films and television shows.

Guadalupe Pineda (1955-1994) was a Salvadoran human rights activist and trade unionist who fought for workers' rights and democracy in El Salvador. She was assassinated during the Salvadoran Civil War, and her legacy continues to inspire human rights movements in Central America.

These are just a few examples of individuals throughout history who have carried the name Guadalupe, reflecting its deep roots in Spanish and Latin American culture, as well as its enduring association with the Virgin Mary and the celebration of her apparition in Mexico.