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Name Origin

Maximilian is a masculine given name of Latin origin, meaning 'greatest'. It is derived from the Roman cognomen Maximus, which was used by several notable figures in Roman history, including Emperor Maximinus Thrax. The name gained popularity in Europe during the Middle Ages and Renaissance, particularly among royal families.

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Famous People

Maximilian I, Holy Roman Emperor (1459-1519)

Holy Roman Emperor, Archduke of Austria

  • Expanded the Habsburg territories significantly
  • Commissioned major artistic works and cultural projects
  • Oversaw a period of relative peace and stability in the Holy Roman Empire

Maximilian II, Holy Roman Emperor (1527-1576)

Holy Roman Emperor, King of Bohemia and Hungary

  • Promoted the Counter-Reformation in his domains
  • Established the University of Graz
  • Expanded Habsburg control over parts of the Netherlands and Italy

Maximilian Robespierre (1758-1794)

French lawyer and politician

  • Key figure in the French Revolution
  • Led the Reign of Terror, a period of intense political repression
  • Advocate for radical social and political change

Maximilian Kolbe (1894-1941)

Polish Franciscan friar and martyr

  • Canonized as a saint by the Catholic Church
  • Founded the Militia Immaculatae, a movement dedicated to spreading devotion to Mary
  • Voluntarily offered his life in place of another prisoner at Auschwitz concentration camp