The name Laura is derived from the Latin word "laurus", meaning "laurel plant" or "laurel tree". The laurel tree has been a symbol of victory, honor, and fame since ancient times, and its leaves were used to create crowns for triumphant leaders and heroes.

Laura's origins can be traced back to the Roman Empire, where it was initially used as a feminine form of the masculine name Laurus. The name gained popularity during the Middle Ages, particularly in Italy and other parts of Europe influenced by Latin culture.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Laura can be found in the work of the Italian poet Francesco Petrarca, also known as Petrarch (1304-1374). His famous collection of poems, "Il Canzoniere" (The Songbook), was dedicated to a woman named Laura, who was likely an idealized love interest rather than a real person.

Laura de Noves (circa 1310-1348), a French noblewoman, is often cited as a potential inspiration for Petrarch's Laura, though this connection remains speculative. Regardless, Petrarch's work played a significant role in popularizing the name throughout Europe.

Notable historical figures named Laura include:

1. Laura Cereta (1469-1499), an Italian Renaissance humanist and one of the first modern feminist writers.
2. Laura Bassi (1711-1778), an Italian physicist and the first woman to earn a professorship at a European university.
3. Laura Ingalls Wilder (1867-1957), an American writer best known for her classic children's book series "Little House on the Prairie".
4. Laura Riding (1901-1991), an American poet, critic, and writer who co-founded the Fugitive poetry movement.
5. Laura Esquivel (born 1950), a Mexican novelist best known for her book "Like Water for Chocolate".

Throughout history, the name Laura has been associated with qualities such as beauty, intelligence, and creativity, thanks to its connection with the laurel plant and its symbolism of honor and achievement.