The name Henry has its origins in the Germanic languages. It derives from the Old German name Heimrich, which itself comes from the words heim meaning "home" and rich meaning "power" or "ruler." The name can be interpreted as meaning "ruler of the home" or "the home ruler."

Henry was a popular name among the Germanic peoples in the early Middle Ages. It first appeared in written records in the 8th century AD, with references to individuals such as Henry of Bavaria, a Duke who lived from around 735 to 786.

The name gained greater prominence in the 11th century with Henry I of France, who ruled from 1031 to 1060. He was the first of several French kings named Henry. Other notable historical figures with this name include Henry II of England (1133-1189), who ruled over an empire spanning England and parts of France. He is remembered for his quarrels with Thomas Becket, the Archbishop of Canterbury.

Henry III of England (1207-1272) reigned during a turbulent period marked by conflicts with his barons over the limits of royal power. Henry IV (1367-1413) was the first monarch of the House of Lancaster and came to power after deposing Richard II in 1399. Henry V (1387-1422) is celebrated for his military victories against the French in the Hundred Years' War, including the famous Battle of Agincourt in 1415.

Other prominent Henrys in history include Henry VIII of England (1491-1547), whose reign saw the English Reformation and the break with the Catholic Church. He was married six times. Henry the Navigator (1394-1460) was a Portuguese prince who sponsored voyages of exploration along the African coast, helping initiate the Age of Discovery.