The given name Woodrow has its origins in the English language, emerging during the Middle Ages. It is derived from the combination of two Old English words: "wudu," meaning "wood," and "row," which refers to a row or line of trees or a clearing in a forest.

The earliest recorded use of the name Woodrow dates back to the 13th century, when it was mentioned in various historical records and documents from England. It was likely used as a surname initially, referring to someone who lived near a wooded area or worked in the forestry industry.

One of the earliest known individuals with the name Woodrow was Woodrow Wyatt, an English politician and writer who lived from 1918 to 1997. He served as a Member of Parliament and was known for his outspoken views on various political and social issues.

In the United States, the name Woodrow gained significant prominence due to Woodrow Wilson, the 28th President of the United States, who served from 1913 to 1921. Born in 1856 and died in 1924, Wilson was a prominent academic and leader known for his role in World War I and his efforts to establish the League of Nations.

Another notable figure with the name Woodrow was Woodrow Wyatt, a British Labour Party politician and writer who lived from 1918 to 1997. He served as a Member of Parliament and was known for his outspoken views on various political and social issues.

In the realm of literature, Woodrow Parfrey was an American author and publisher who lived from 1956 to 2005. He founded the publishing house Feral House and was known for his work on counterculture and alternative topics.

Woodrow Wilkins was an American professional baseball player who played for the St. Louis Cardinals and the Philadelphia Phillies in the 1920s and 1930s. He was born in 1898 and died in 1970.

While the name Woodrow is not as common today as it once was, it has a rich history and has been carried by notable figures in various fields, from politics and literature to sports and entertainment.