The name Minnie is a diminutive form of the name Minerva, which derives from the Roman goddess of wisdom and war. The name Minerva itself stems from an ancient Etruscan root meaning "mind" or "intellect". The first recorded use of the name Minnie dates back to the late 18th century, when it emerged as a nickname for Minerva in English-speaking regions.

One of the earliest recorded individuals with the name Minnie was Minnie Caroline Austen, born in 1805. She was the niece of the renowned English novelist Jane Austen. Another notable figure was Minnie Ries, an American educator and philanthropist born in 1847. She helped establish the Chicago Kindergarten Club and worked to promote early childhood education.

In the world of literature, Minnie Maddern Fiske, born in 1865, was a celebrated American actress and playwright. She was known for her performances in plays by Shakespeare and other classical works. Minnie Cox, born in 1869, was a British trade unionist and suffragette who campaigned for women's rights and better working conditions.

One of the most famous individuals with the name Minnie was Minnie Buckingham Harper, born in 1886. She was a prominent African American educator, author, and activist who advocated for racial equality and women's rights. Her memoir, "Irons in the Fire," documented her experiences and struggles as a black woman in the early 20th century.

Throughout history, the name Minnie has been associated with strength, intelligence, and a pioneering spirit. While its origins can be traced back to ancient Roman mythology, the name has taken on a life of its own, carried by remarkable individuals who have left their mark on various fields, from education and literature to activism and social reform.