Short answers, pulled from the story.
The Latin word praefectus emerged from the verb praeficere, meaning to put in front. In ancient Rome, this title designated officials whose authority came not from their own person but through delegation from a higher power.
Napoleon Bonaparte created the French prefect function on the 17th of February 1800 following his coup d'état of the 9th of November 1799. This date marked his rise to head of state under the title Premier Consul.
Nine Prefects serve within the Congregations of the Roman Curia today. Two additional positions exist within the Papal Household and another two manage Economic Affairs of the Holy See.
Greece abolished its fifty-four elected prefectures through Kallikratis reform in 2010. Last elections occurred October 2006 alongside municipal voting cycles.
The Prefect of Police coordinates Paris city forces directly under Minister of Interior command. Unlike other towns where local police report to mayors, Paris maintains unique central oversight.