World maps include names that reflect tales of discovery, devotion to others, and dramatic battles during struggles for independence. These maps also include many countries named after geographic locations, but in addition, there is a unique group of countries named for historical persons, legendary leaders, or saints, including countries named for revolutionaries from South America to royal family trees found in Southeast Asia.
The names of countries depicted on world maps will remain as lasting reminders of how those people influenced all mankind throughout history. In this story, we look at the interesting origins of 10 separate sovereign countries, and we also highlight the explorers, kings, icons, and others who gave them their names and shaped the cultures, communities, and geography of each of those countries.