Members of this family have played a major role in European history as soldiers, politicians and diplomats.

In 1474, Frederick III, Holy Roman Emperor conferred upon Unico II Ripperda and all his descendants the title of baron with Imperial immediacy (“Reichsunmittelbarer Häuptling und Freiherr”) and the right to issue coins ("muntrecht").

On 3 September 1676, Leopold I, Holy Roman Emperor recognised this nobility diploma and confirmed the title of baron ("Reichsfreiherr") for all members of the house of Ripperda.

From the 11th century, members of this family had ruled as local chiefs in the provinces of Groningen and East Frisia.

In addition, numerous descendants of an illegitimate son of John Willem Ripperda listed below) exist in Lingen (Germany) and the United States.