The name Jack is derived from the Hebrew name Yaakov, meaning "supplanter" or "one who follows". The name was brought to Britain by the Normans after their conquest in 1066 and the Old French diminutive "Jacquet" evolved into the modern Jack. The name became extremely popular in medieval England, particularly after the Norman invasion.

In ancient texts, Jacob is featured prominently in the Book of Genesis as one of the patriarchs of the Israelites, and the son of Isaac and Rebecca. His name was changed to Israel by God after he wrestled with an angel. The name Jack is derived from this biblical name.

One of the earliest recorded examples of the name Jack is in the medieval mystery plays and folk tales featuring a character named Jack, such as "Jack and the Beanstalk" and "Jack the Giant Killer". These stories likely originated in the 16th century and helped popularize the name.

Famous historical figures named Jack include Jack Cade (1420-1450), an English rebel leader during the Hundred Years' War, and Jack Sheppard (1702-1724), a notorious English burglar and escape artist. Jack Churchill (1906-1996) was a British army officer who fought in World War II and was known for carrying a sword and bagpipes into battle.

In literature, Jack Worthing is a central character in Oscar Wilde's play "The Importance of Being Earnest" (1895), and Jack London (1876-1916) was an American author known for novels such as "The Call of the Wild" and "White Fang". Jack Nicholson (born 1937) is an acclaimed American actor who has starred in films like "One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest" and "The Shining".