The name Bertram originates from the Germanic languages, deriving from the elements "beraht" meaning "bright" and "hraban" meaning "raven". It emerged during the medieval period across various Germanic cultures and regions. The earliest recorded spelling was "Berahtram" in Old High German.

An early historical reference to the name appears in the 9th century Latin chronicle "Vita Hludovici Imperatoris" by the Frankish scholar Thegan of Trier. He mentions a Count Bertram who served as a courtier under the Carolingian emperor Louis the Pious in the early 800s.

One of the earliest recorded bearers of the name was Bertram the Elder, Count of Toulouse, who lived from around 850 to 896 AD. He was a powerful nobleman and military leader in the Carolingian Empire during the reign of Charles the Bald.

In the 11th century, Bertram of Aquitaine (1000-1088) was a renowned scholar and theologian who served as the head of the school at the Abbey of Aurillac in France. His writings on theology and philosophy were influential during the medieval period.

Another notable historical figure was Bertram de Born (1140-1215), a French nobleman and troubadour from the Aquitaine region. He is renowned for his sirventes, a form of satirical poetry, and his participation in the conflicts between Henry II of England and his sons.

In England, Bertram de Verdun (1190-1245) was a prominent baronial leader during the reign of King John and the early years of Henry III. He played a key role in the negotiations that led to the sealing of the Magna Carta in 1215.

These are just a few examples of the many individuals throughout history who bore the name Bertram, reflecting its long-standing use across various cultures and regions, particularly in medieval Europe.