​PETER (Lat. Petrus from Gr. πέτρος, a rock, Ital. Pietro, Piero, Pier, Fr. Pierre, Span. Pedro, Ger. Peter, Russ. Petr), a masculine name, derived from the famous surname bestowed by Christ upon his apostle Simon (“Thou art Peter and upon this rock will I build my church,” Matt. xiv. 17-19). The name has consequently been very popular in Christian countries. It is noteworthy, however, that, out of deference to the “prince of the apostles” and first bishop of Rome, the name has never been assumed by a pope The biographies which follow are arranged in the order (1) the apostle, (2) kings; (3) other eminent men