Gladstone is of English origin, derived from the Old English words 'glæd' meaning 'happy' and 'stán' signifying 'stone'. This name was historically used as a surname before evolving into a given name in the 19th century. It gained popularity due to its association with William Ewart Gladstone, a prominent British statesman and four-time Prime Minister of the United Kingdom during the Victorian era.
"Gladstone experienced a peak in popularity between 1915 and 1922 with the highest number of births in those years, and after that, its usage gradually declined until the late 20th century."