The given name Miquel is a masculine name with origins in the Catalan and Spanish languages. It is derived from the Hebrew name Michael, which means "who is like God?" The name has been in use since ancient times.

Miquel is a variant spelling of the name Michael, which was popular among early Christians as an homage to the Archangel Michael. The name appears in various religious texts and scriptures, including the Bible and the Quran.

One of the earliest recorded bearers of the name Miquel was Miquel de Verí, a 13th-century Catalan poet and philosopher. Another notable figure was Miquel Barceló, a 14th-century Catalan explorer who accompanied Christopher Columbus on his second voyage to the Americas.

During the Renaissance, the name Miquel was popularized by the famous Italian artist Michelangelo Buonarroti (1475-1564), whose given name was the Italian equivalent of Miquel. His artistic masterpieces, such as the Sistine Chapel ceiling and the sculpture of David, are among the most iconic works of art in the world.

In the 17th century, Miquel de Cervantes (1547-1616), the Spanish author of the classic novel "Don Quixote," was a prominent bearer of the name. His literary works have had a profound impact on the development of modern literature.

Another notable figure was Miquel Hidalgo y Costilla (1753-1811), a Mexican priest and revolutionary leader who is considered the father of Mexican independence. His "Grito de Dolores" in 1810 sparked the Mexican War of Independence against Spanish rule.

Throughout history, the name Miquel has been borne by many other notable individuals, including artists, writers, politicians, and religious figures, reflecting its enduring popularity across various cultures and time periods.