​PETER (Lat. Petrus from Gr. 1ré1'pos, 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 biographic which follow are arranged in the order (1) the apostle, (2) kings; (3) other eminent men