The name Richie is an English diminutive form of the name Richard, which derives from the Germanic name Ricard. The name Ricard itself is composed of the Germanic elements ric, meaning "power" or "ruler," and hard, meaning "brave" or "hardy." Thus, the full meaning of the name Richard, and by extension Richie, is "brave power" or "powerful ruler."

The name Richard gained widespread popularity in medieval Europe due to its association with several prominent figures in history. One of the earliest recorded instances of the name can be found in the 8th century, with the Frankish Duke Richard the Justiciar, who lived from around 725 to 791.

In England, the name became particularly popular after the Norman Conquest in 1066, when William the Conqueror's loyal supporter, Richard FitzGilbert, was rewarded with lands and titles. The name Richard subsequently appeared in several English monarchs, including Richard I (1157-1199), known as Richard the Lionheart, and Richard III (1452-1485), whose reign was marked by the Wars of the Roses.

Other notable historical figures with the name Richard include the Italian composer Richard Wagner (1813-1883), the American writer Richard Wright (1908-1960), and the English actor Richard Burton (1925-1984). The diminutive form Richie has also been borne by several famous individuals, such as the American singer-songwriter Richie Havens (1941-2013) and the American actor Richie Sambora (born 1959).

Additionally, the name Richie has appeared in various literary works and religious texts throughout history. In the Bible, the Book of Revelation mentions a figure named "the rich man," which some scholars believe may be a reference to a person named Richard or Richie. The name has also been used in works of fiction, such as the character Richie Tozier in Stephen King's novel "It."