Baldwin derived from the Germanic elements bald "bold, brave" and win "friend". In the Middle Ages this was a popular name in Flanders and among the Normans, who brought it to Britain. It was borne by one of the leaders of the First Crusade, an 11th-century nobleman from Flanders. After the crusaders conquered Jerusalem, he was crowned as the king of the Kingdom of Jerusalem.
Saintly namesake: Baldwin of Rieti was a Benedictine abbot in 12th-century Italy, remembered for his piety and leadership in the monastic community. (July 24 · 12th century)
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