The name Dora is derived from the Ancient Greek word "δωρον" (doron), meaning "gift". It is a feminine form of the masculine name Doron, which was commonly used in ancient Greece. The name's earliest recorded use dates back to the 5th century BC, when it appeared in various Ancient Greek texts and inscriptions.

One of the most famous historical figures named Dora was Dora of Pamphylia, a Christian martyr who lived in the 3rd century AD. She was executed during the persecution of Christians under the Roman Emperor Diocletian. Her story is recounted in the Orthodox Church's liturgical texts, where she is revered as a saint.

In the Middle Ages, the name Dora gained popularity in various European regions, particularly in Italy and Spain. One notable bearer of the name was Dora d'Istria (1828-1888), an Italian-Albanian author, patriot, and one of the first female ethnographers. She wrote extensively on the history, culture, and folklore of the Balkan region.

During the Renaissance period, the name Dora was associated with the concept of a "gift from God". This connection likely contributed to its continued use, particularly in Catholic communities. One famous example is Dora Baltea (1573-1643), an Italian mystic and founder of the Order of the Daughters of the Blessed Virgin.

In the 19th century, the name Dora gained prominence in English-speaking countries, thanks in part to the popularity of the children's novel "The Fairchild Family" by Mary Martha Sherwood, which featured a character named Dora. Another notable bearer of the name was Dora Marsden (1882-1960), a British feminist and philosopher who founded the influential literary magazine "The Freewoman".

Throughout history, several other notable figures have borne the name Dora, including Dora Maar (1907-1997), a French photographer and painter who was a muse and lover of Pablo Picasso, and Dora Gerson (1899-1943), a German-Jewish actress and singer who was a victim of the Holocaust.