The name Young is an English given name derived from the Old English word "geong," which means "young." This name has been used throughout the English-speaking world for centuries.

The earliest recorded instances of the name Young can be traced back to the Anglo-Saxon period in England, around the 5th to 11th centuries AD. During this time, the name was commonly used as a descriptive name, referring to someone who was young or youthful.

In the Middle Ages, the name Young gained popularity and was often used as a symbolic name to represent the qualities of youth, such as energy, vitality, and potential. It was also used as a nickname for someone who appeared younger than their age.

One of the earliest known historical figures with the name Young was Young of Esslingen, a German monk and chronicler who lived in the 11th century. He is known for writing a chronicle about the history of his monastery.

During the Renaissance period, the name Young became more widespread across Europe. A notable figure with this name was Young Gresley, an English soldier and explorer who lived in the 16th century. He was known for his adventures in the New World and his expeditions to the West Indies.

In the 17th century, the name Young gained popularity in Scotland and Ireland. One of the most famous Scots with this name was Young Ged, a renowned philosopher and mathematician who lived from 1713 to 1785. He made significant contributions to the field of geometry and was a member of the Royal Society of Edinburgh.

Another notable figure with the name Young was Young Townsend, an American politician and lawyer who lived from 1774 to 1859. He served as a member of the United States House of Representatives and was instrumental in the development of the Erie Canal in New York.

In the 19th century, the name Young became more popular in the United States. One of the most famous Americans with this name was Young Brigham, the second president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, who lived from 1801 to 1877. He played a significant role in leading the Mormon pioneers to the Salt Lake Valley and establishing the state of Utah.