The name Eduard has its origins in the Old English language, derived from the Germanic elements "ead" meaning "wealthy" or "prosperous," and "weard" meaning "guardian" or "protector." It first emerged during the Anglo-Saxon period in England and was initially spelled as "Eadweard" or variations thereof.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Eduard can be found in the Anglo-Saxon Chronicle, which mentions King Eadweard the Elder (870-924), who ruled as King of the Anglo-Saxons from 899 until his death. He was renowned for his military campaigns against the Vikings and for consolidating the Kingdom of Wessex.

The name Eduard gained popularity across Europe during the Middle Ages, particularly in Germanic and Slavic regions. It was often associated with nobility and royalty, as evidenced by the numerous kings and princes who bore the name throughout history.

A notable figure was Eduard I (1239-1307), also known as Edward Longshanks, who was King of England from 1272 until his death. He is remembered for his conquests in Wales and Scotland, as well as for his role in the development of English common law.

In the 15th century, Eduard IV (1442-1483) ruled as King of England from 1461 to 1470 and again from 1471 until his death. His reign was marked by the Wars of the Roses, a series of civil wars between the Houses of Lancaster and York for the English throne.

Another prominent Eduard was Eduard Mörike (1804-1875), a German Romantic poet and novelist. He is considered one of the most influential figures in German literature and is best known for his lyric poetry and novellas, including "Mozart auf der Reise nach Prag" (Mozart on the Way to Prague).

In the 20th century, Eduard Shevardnadze (1928-2014) was a Soviet and Georgian politician who served as the second President of Georgia from 1992 to 2003. He played a crucial role in the dissolution of the Soviet Union and the transition of Georgia to independence.