The name Donna has its origins in the Italian language, derived from the Latin word "domina" which means "lady" or "mistress". It was a respectful way to address a woman of higher social standing or nobility.

In the Middle Ages, Donna became a common name among Italian women, particularly in regions like Tuscany and Lombardy. It was also adopted in other parts of Europe, although its popularity varied across different cultures.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Donna can be found in the works of the famous Italian poet Dante Alighieri, who lived from 1265 to 1321. In his masterpiece, the Divine Comedy, he refers to his muse and unrequited love as "la Donna gentile" (the gentle lady).

Throughout history, several notable women have borne the name Donna. One of the most famous was Donna Francesca Romana (1384-1440), an Italian religious mystic and the foundress of the Oblate Congregation of Tor de' Specchi. She was canonized as a saint by the Catholic Church in 1608.

Another prominent figure was Donna Laura Bassi (1711-1778), an Italian philosopher and physicist who was one of the first women to earn a university degree and become a professor. She was appointed to the chair of philosophy at the University of Bologna in 1732.

In the realm of music, Donna Summer (1948-2012) was an iconic American singer and songwriter, known as the "Queen of Disco". Her hits include "MacArthur Park," "Hot Stuff," and "Last Dance."

Donna Reed (1921-1986) was an American actress who won an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for her role in the 1953 film From Here to Eternity. She is also remembered for her portrayal of the ideal suburban mother in the television series The Donna Reed Show.

Lastly, Donna Shalala (born 1941) is an American politician and academic who served as the United States Secretary of Health and Human Services under President Bill Clinton from 1993 to 2001. She was also the president of the University of Miami from 2001 to 2015.