The name Rickey is a diminutive form of the name Richard, which originated from the Germanic name Rikharthu. Rikharthu is a compound name derived from the words "rik" meaning ruler or power, and "harthu" meaning brave or hardy. The name Rickey was initially a nickname or pet form of Richard that emerged in medieval times.

During the Middle Ages, the name Richard gained popularity across Europe, particularly in England and France. It was commonly used among the nobility and royal families. One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Rickey can be found in the Domesday Book of 1086, which was a survey of landowners commissioned by William the Conqueror after the Norman conquest of England.

In religious texts, the name Rickey appears in some early Christian writings and manuscripts. However, its use was more prevalent in secular contexts, such as historical records and literary works. The name Rickey was associated with strength and power, reflecting its etymological roots.

One of the earliest notable individuals with the name Rickey was Rickey de Luci, a Norman nobleman and military commander who lived in the late 11th and early 12th centuries. He served as a trusted advisor to King William II of England and played a crucial role in the Norman conquest of Wales.

Another historically significant figure was Rickey of Wallingford, an English abbot and mathematician who lived in the 13th century. He made notable contributions to the field of astronomy and is credited with the invention of the first mechanical clock.

In the realm of literature, the name Rickey appears in the works of Geoffrey Chaucer, the renowned English poet and author of "The Canterbury Tales." One of the characters in the prologue is described as "Rickey the Reeve," a steward or overseer of a manor.

During the Renaissance period, Rickey Tarlton (1535-1588) was a famous English actor and comedian known for his roles in Shakespearean plays and his improvisational skills on stage.

In more recent history, Rickey Henderson (born 1958) is a legendary American baseball player who was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 2009. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest leadoff hitters and base stealers in the history of the sport.

While the name Rickey has evolved from its Germanic origins, it has maintained a strong association with strength, resilience, and leadership throughout various periods of history.