The name Anders has its roots in the ancient Germanic languages, where it originated as a masculine name. It is a compound name derived from the Old Norse elements "andr-" meaning "man" and "-r" meaning "warrior" or "soldier." Thus, the name Anders translates to "man-warrior" or "manly warrior."

The earliest recorded use of the name dates back to the 8th century, where it appears in Old Norse sagas and records. During the Viking Age, the name was popular among Scandinavian warriors and seafarers, reflecting the culture's emphasis on strength, courage, and valor.

One of the earliest known historical figures bearing the name Anders was Anders Sunesen, a Danish archbishop who lived from around 1167 to 1228. He played a significant role in the political and religious affairs of Denmark during his time.

In the 14th century, Anders Pedersen, a Danish nobleman and military commander, gained prominence for his role in the struggles between Denmark and Sweden. He lived from around 1300 to 1367.

The name continued to be popular in Scandinavia throughout the Middle Ages and into the modern era. One notable figure was Anders Celsius, the Swedish astronomer and physicist who devised the Celsius temperature scale. He lived from 1701 to 1744.

Another famous bearer of the name was Anders Zorn, a Swedish painter and etcher who achieved international acclaim for his portraits and nudes. He lived from 1860 to 1920 and is considered one of Sweden's most renowned artists.

In more recent history, Anders Behring Breivik, a Norwegian far-right terrorist responsible for the 2011 Norway attacks, brought notoriety to the name. He was born in 1979 and is currently serving a maximum sentence of 21 years in prison.

While the name Anders has ancient Germanic roots and a long history in Scandinavia, it has also gained popularity in other parts of the world, particularly in English-speaking countries, due to increased cultural exchange and migration.