Of Greek origin.
Latin form of the Greek name Odysseus, also Odysseas.
Ulysses was the hero of Homer’s epic poem “Odyssey”.
He was the king of Ithaca who fought in the Trojan War. He was an extremely smart strategist, resourceful leader and intelligent warrior.
He made a ten year’s journey back home after the fall of Troy and he was presumed dead in Ithaca.
James Joyce’s novel “Ulysses”, who parallels Homer’s epic “Odyssey”, has influenced many contemporary authors.
Other forms of the name are: Ulysse, Ulises, Odysseus.
Famous bearer is Ulysses S. Grant, U.S. general, commander of the Union army during the American Civil War and 18th U.S. president.
Watch two History Channel’s short videos about king Ulysses: