Maricela is a Spanish feminine name derived from the combination of María and Cela, a shortening of the name Marcela. Its origins can be traced back to ancient Rome, where Marcella was a feminine form of the Roman family name Marcellus, meaning "young warrior" or "little warrior."

The name María, which forms the first part of Maricela, has its roots in the Hebrew name Miryam or Miriam, meaning "bitter" or "beloved." It gained widespread popularity after the birth of the Virgin Mary, the mother of Jesus Christ, in the 1st century AD. As Christianity spread across Europe, the name María became a staple in many languages, including Spanish.

The earliest recorded use of the name Maricela dates back to the late 19th century in Spain and Latin American countries. One of the most notable historical figures with this name was Maricela Mariño de Soler (1906-1998), a Nicaraguan politician and women's rights activist who played a significant role in the country's feminist movement.

Another prominent figure was Maricela Paredes (1915-1985), a Cuban singer and actress known for her contributions to the Cuban son music genre. She was a leading voice in the golden age of Cuban music and performed with renowned musicians such as Arsenio Rodríguez and Benny Moré.

In the literary world, Maricela Loaiza Romero (1923-2008) was a renowned Colombian writer and poet. Her works explored themes of love, nature, and the human condition, and she was awarded several prestigious literary prizes throughout her career.

Maricela de la Luz Martínez (1936-2012) was a Mexican actress and singer who appeared in numerous films and television shows during the Golden Age of Mexican cinema. She was known for her versatility and her ability to portray a wide range of characters.

Maricela González Ayala (born 1959) is a Mexican politician and activist who has served as a member of the Chamber of Deputies, representing the state of Nuevo León. She has been a vocal advocate for women's rights, indigenous rights, and environmental causes.

These are just a few examples of notable individuals throughout history who have borne the name Maricela, a name that carries a rich cultural heritage and has been associated with various fields, including politics, arts, and literature.