The name Prince has its origins in the Latin word "princeps" which means "first" or "chief". It was originally a title denoting rank or authority and was later adopted as a personal name.

The earliest recorded use of Prince as a first name dates back to the 3rd century AD, when it appeared in Roman historical records. It was a popular name among the Roman nobility and was often given to the sons of emperors or high-ranking officials.

In the Middle Ages, Prince became a popular name in Western Europe, particularly in England and France. During this period, it was often associated with royalty and was used by members of the aristocracy.

One of the most famous historical figures with the name Prince is Prince Henry the Navigator, a 15th-century Portuguese prince who was instrumental in the early stages of European exploration and the Age of Discovery. He was born in 1394 and died in 1460.

Another notable Prince from history is Prince Rupert of the Rhine, a 17th-century German-born military leader who played a significant role in the English Civil War. He was born in 1619 and died in 1682.

In the 18th century, Prince was a popular name among African Americans, particularly those who were born into slavery. One such notable figure was Prince Whipple, a free African American who fought in the American Revolutionary War. He was born around 1750 and died in 1796.

In the 19th century, Prince was a popular name among European royalty. One famous example is Prince Albert, the husband of Queen Victoria of the United Kingdom. He was born in 1819 and died in 1861.

In the 20th century, the name Prince gained popularity in the United States, particularly among African Americans. One of the most famous individuals with this name is Prince Rogers Nelson, the legendary American musician who was simply known as Prince. He was born in 1958 and died in 2016.