The loading for the new cartridge was standardized and mass production began in 1900–1901 in DWM's factory in Karlsruhe, Germany.

Around 1903, a separate load was developed for Parabellum carbines, with about 20% more powder (increased from the standard 0.32–0.35 g to 0.40 g) and a blackened cartridge case.

Around 1900, Brazilian armed forces adopted the round for use in German-made Parabellum pistols (partially replacing the Simson Nagant-style revolver) and, later, in some Schmeisser MP-28 II submachine guns made in Belgium under license.

The name is derived from the Latin phrase si vis pacem, para bellum—"If you want peace, prepare for war."

[4] According to the official Commission internationale permanente pour l'épreuve des armes à feu portatives (CIP) guidelines, the 7.65×21mm Parabellum case can handle up to 235 MPa (34,100 psi) piezo pressure.

In CIP-regulated countries, every pistol cartridge combo has to be proofed at 130% of this maximum CIP pressure to certify for sale to consumers.