The name Alexandra has its origins in the Greek language and culture, dating back to ancient times. It is a feminine form of the Greek name "Alexandros," which means "defender of men" or "protector of mankind." The name is derived from the Greek words "alexein," meaning "to defend," and "andros," meaning "man."

One of the earliest and most famous historical references to the name Alexandra is in ancient Greek mythology. Alexandra was the name of a character who was the daughter of Priam, the king of Troy during the Trojan War. She was also known as Cassandra, the prophetess who was gifted with the ability to see the future but was cursed with never being believed.

The name Alexandra gained widespread popularity during the Hellenistic period, which followed the reign of Alexander the Great (356-323 BC). Alexander the Great himself was known for his military conquests and the spread of Greek culture throughout the ancient world. As a result, the name Alexandra became associated with strength, courage, and leadership.

One of the earliest recorded examples of the name Alexandra is from the 4th century BC, when Alexandra was the name of a niece of the Greek general and statesman, Antipater. Another notable Alexandra from ancient times was Alexandra Salome, a Hasmonean princess who lived in the 1st century BC and ruled over parts of ancient Judea.

Throughout history, there have been several notable figures who bore the name Alexandra. One of the most famous was Alexandra Feodorovna (1872-1918), the last Tsarina of Russia and wife of Tsar Nicholas II. Another prominent Alexandra was Alexandra of Denmark (1844-1925), who became the Queen Consort of the United Kingdom and the British Dominions as the wife of King Edward VII.

In the field of literature, Alexandra Mikhailovna Kollontai (1872-1952) was a Russian revolutionary, writer, and diplomat who played a significant role in the Bolshevik Revolution and the early years of the Soviet Union. Alexandra David-Neel (1868-1969) was a French explorer, writer, and Buddhist scholar who became famous for her travels in Tibet and her writings on Tibetan culture.

Other notable Alexandras include Alexandra Zampetaki (1901-1982), a Greek actress and singer who was a prominent figure in the Greek cinema of the 20th century, and Alexandra Kosteniuk (born 1984), a Russian chess grandmaster who has won numerous international chess tournaments and championships.