10 Famous Historical Figures Who Changed Their Name

What's in a name? This is a question that is often asked, with some people believing there is far too much emphasis placed upon the title or honorific by which someone is referred. However, names are extremely important. Names can have powerful connotations - for example "Adolf Hitler" is associated with the murder of millions of Jews and the Holocaust - and can, in some circumstances, provide a much more compelling image than any number of descriptive adjectives ever could. Furthermore, the meaning of names can also bear great significance. Some people are named after famous or inspirational people, or they may adopt a name or nickname which has a particular meaning in order to strengthen a cause or promote an ideal of some form. For example, Joseph Stalin changed his name in order to hide his revolutionary dealings but also because his new alias had a significant meaning. Muhammad Ali, meanwhile, adopted a name change after he switched religion to the Nation of Islam during the 1960s. And, interestingly, Che Guevara was given the famous nickname by which he became known due to an unusual speaking habit he had. So, here are 10 famous historical figures who changed their names at some point during their lifetime.