Greek Mythology:
* Perseus: The most obvious connection is to the Greek hero Perseus, from whom Percy gets his name. Perseus was a demigod, son of Zeus, who famously slayed the Gorgon Medusa. Percy's journey parallels Perseus' in many ways: fighting monsters, facing challenges, and overcoming obstacles to save the day.
* Heracles: Percy's strength, courage, and ability to face seemingly impossible tasks are reminiscent of Heracles, another powerful demigod son of Zeus, known for his Twelve Labours.
* Jason: Like Jason, who led the Argonauts on a quest to retrieve the Golden Fleece, Percy embarks on many quests, often with a group of companions.
Other Historical Figures:
* Ulysses S. Grant: Percy's demigod father, Poseidon, is often associated with the sea and, by extension, naval warfare. Ulysses S. Grant, a famous American general, was known for his strategic genius and his prowess in naval battles.
It's worth noting that Rick Riordan, the author of the Percy Jackson series, often blends mythology with real-world history, creating a unique and engaging narrative for his readers. This allows for a wide range of historical figures to connect to the characters and storylines within the books.