The surname Stathos has its origins in Greece, dating back to the late Byzantine period around the 13th century. It is believed to have derived from the Greek word "statheros," meaning "stable" or "steadfast." This suggests that the name may have been initially given to someone who possessed these qualities or perhaps lived in a sturdy, well-established dwelling.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Stathos can be found in a manuscript from the island of Crete, dated around 1280 AD. This document mentions a certain "Georgios Stathos," who was a landowner in the village of Argyroupoli. It is possible that this individual or his ancestors may have adopted the surname as a reference to their strong presence in the area.

In the late 15th century, during the Ottoman rule in Greece, there are records of a family by the name of Stathos residing in the town of Mystras, located in the Peloponnese region. This family is believed to have played a significant role in the local community and may have been involved in trade or agriculture.

As the centuries passed, the name Stathos spread to other parts of Greece, including the islands of the Aegean Sea. One notable bearer of this surname was Ioannis Stathos, a merchant and ship owner from the island of Chios, who lived during the 17th century. His successful trading endeavors contributed to the prosperity of the island's economy.

Another prominent figure was Alexandros Stathos, a Greek revolutionary who fought against the Ottoman Empire in the early 19th century. Born in 1790 in the village of Sykaminea, near Sparta, he played a crucial role in organizing local resistance efforts during the Greek War of Independence.

In more recent times, the name Stathos has been associated with several notable individuals, including:

1. Dimitrios Stathos (1897-1981), a Greek painter and sculptor known for his depictions of traditional Greek life and landscapes.
2. Ioannis Stathos (1908-1995), a Greek politician who served as a member of the Greek Parliament and held various ministerial positions.
3. Eleni Stathou (1927-2012), a celebrated Greek actress who starred in numerous films and plays throughout her career.
4. Konstantinos Stathos (1940-2018), a Greek composer and music educator who contributed significantly to the preservation and promotion of Greek folk music.
5. Evangelos Stathos (born 1968), a contemporary Greek author and journalist, known for his novels and essays on social and political issues.

While the surname Stathos may have evolved over time, with slight variations in spelling or pronunciation, its roots can be traced back to the rich cultural heritage of Greece, reflecting the resilience and stability associated with this ancient name.