The name Viktor has its roots in the Latin word "victor", which means "conqueror" or "victor". This name was prevalent in ancient Roman times and was often given to male children as a symbol of strength and victory.

The first recorded use of the name Viktor dates back to the 3rd century AD, when it was mentioned in various Roman historical documents and inscriptions. One of the earliest known figures with this name was Viktor of Tonona, a Christian martyr from the Roman province of Mauritania Caesariensis (modern-day Algeria) who lived in the late 3rd century.

In the Middle Ages, the name Viktor gained popularity across Europe, particularly in regions where Latin influence was strong, such as Italy, France, and Spain. During this time, it was often associated with religious figures and saints, including Saint Viktor of Marseille (c. 290-303 AD), a Christian martyr from Marseille, France, and Saint Viktor of Xanten (c. 286-305 AD), a Roman soldier and martyr from the Lower Rhine region.

One of the most notable historical figures with the name Viktor was Viktor Mikhailovich Vasnetsov (1848-1926), a renowned Russian artist and painter known for his iconic works depicting Russian folklore and fairy tales. Another famous Viktor was Viktor Emmanuilovich Frankl (1905-1997), an Austrian neurologist, psychiatrist, and Holocaust survivor who developed the psychological approach known as logotherapy.

In the world of literature, Viktor Pelevin (born 1962) is a contemporary Russian novelist and playwright known for his satirical and philosophical works, while Viktor Tsoi (1962-1990) was a legendary Soviet rock musician and songwriter who became a cultural icon in the late Soviet era.

Other notable historical figures with the name Viktor include Viktor Yushchenko (born 1954), the third President of Ukraine from 2005 to 2010, and Viktor Mikhailovich Chernov (1873-1952), a Russian revolutionary and a leader of the Socialist-Revolutionary Party in the early 20th century.