The name Roberta is a feminine form of the name Robert, which has its origins in the Germanic name Hrodebert. Hrodebert is derived from the Germanic elements "hrod" meaning "fame" and "berht" meaning "bright." The name Robert gained popularity after being borne by several Frankish lords and nobles in the early medieval period, including Robert I, Duke of Normandy who played a significant role in the Norman conquest of England in the 11th century.

The feminine form Roberta emerged in Italy during the Renaissance period as an Italian variant of the name Robert. It was initially used as a nickname or diminutive form before gaining wider acceptance as a given name in its own right. The earliest recorded use of Roberta as a first name dates back to the 14th century in Italy.

One of the earliest notable figures named Roberta was Roberta Guasconi, an Italian painter and engraver who lived from around 1540 to 1619. She was a prominent artist in the Mannerist style and was one of the few female painters of her time to gain recognition for her work.

In the realm of literature, the name Roberta gained prominence through the character of Roberta "Bobbie" Wickham in the 1904 novel "The Golden Age" by Kenneth Grahame. The book was a classic of children's literature and helped to popularize the name in the English-speaking world.

Another notable figure named Roberta was Roberta Cowell, an English aviatrix and pioneering pilot who lived from 1892 to 1992. She was the first woman to be awarded the Air Ministry's Aviator's Certificate in 1912 and played a significant role in promoting women's involvement in aviation.

In the world of music, Roberta Flack, an American singer-songwriter born in 1937, has had a lasting impact with her soulful and introspective compositions. She is best known for her hit songs "The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face" and "Killing Me Softly with His Song," which earned her multiple Grammy Awards.

Roberta Vinci, an Italian professional tennis player born in 1983, achieved notable success on the court. She reached a career-high ranking of No. 7 in the world and won several prestigious tournaments, including the 2015 US Open where she defeated Serena Williams in the semifinals.