The name Godwin is and English name for a male meaning 'a friend of God', obtained from Old English God merged with the word 'wine' meaning friend.
A famous namesake would be Godwin, Earl of Wessex in England. He was a powerful Earl, father to the future King Harold II of England. He was made chief advisor to King Canute, and later made an earl and was awarded a huge amount of wealth and property. It is said that Godwin apparently allowed the killing of an applicant to the throne, Alfred, after the death of King Canute. This act of viciousness earned him many enemies; however he managed to attain even more authority and power. He obtained earldoms for both his sons. His son acted as his successor as the Earl of Wessex after his death.
A famous namesake would be Godwin, Earl of Wessex in England. He was a powerful Earl, father to the future King Harold II of England. He was made chief advisor to King Canute, and later made an earl and was awarded a huge amount of wealth and property. It is said that Godwin apparently allowed the killing of an applicant to the throne, Alfred, after the death of King Canute. This act of viciousness earned him many enemies; however he managed to attain even more authority and power. He obtained earldoms for both his sons. His son acted as his successor as the Earl of Wessex after his death.