The name Jorge originates from the Greek name Georgios, derived from the Greek words ge (earth) and ergon (work), meaning "earth-worker" or "farmer". Its origins can be traced back to the ancient Greek era, around the 4th century BC. The name later spread across Europe and became popular in various forms, including Jorge in Spanish and Portuguese-speaking regions.

In the early days of Christianity, the name gained religious significance, as it was borne by several Christian saints and martyrs, including Saint George, a Roman soldier and Christian martyr who became one of the most venerated military saints. The legend of Saint George slaying a dragon became a popular story, further contributing to the name's popularity.

The name Jorge first appeared in written records during the Middle Ages, with notable figures such as Jorge Manrique, a Spanish poet born in 1440 who is renowned for his elegiac poem "Coplas por la muerte de su padre". Another early bearer of the name was Jorge de Montemayor, a Portuguese novelist and poet from the 16th century, best known for his pastoral romance "La Diana".

During the Renaissance period, Jorge Luis Vives, a Spanish scholar and humanist born in 1492, gained recognition for his works on philosophy, education, and social reforms. In the realm of exploration, Jorge de Meneses, a Portuguese navigator from the 15th century, played a crucial role in the Age of Discovery, leading expeditions to the east coast of Africa.

In more recent history, Jorge Luis Borges, an Argentine writer born in 1899 and widely regarded as one of the most influential literary figures of the 20th century, brought significant acclaim to the name. His works, including short stories and essays, explored themes of philosophy, metaphysics, and the complexities of human existence.

Other notable individuals named Jorge include Jorge Amado, a Brazilian novelist born in 1912, whose works focused on the lives and struggles of the working class in his home country; Jorge Semprún, a Spanish writer, political activist, and former Minister of Culture, born in 1923, who survived the Nazi concentration camps and later became a prominent voice against totalitarianism; and Jorge Mario Bergoglio, the current Pope Francis, born in 1936 and the first pontiff from the Americas.