Ursula gained some popularity in the mid-20th century but has become less common in recent years. It is a name that carries a sense of strength and individuality. The name Ursula is often associated with characters in literature and popular culture, which have contributed to its recognition.

Saint Ursula is a legendary Christian martyr from the 4th or 5th century. According to tradition, she was a princess who, along with a group of 11,000 virgins, was martyred by the Huns in Cologne, Germany. Saint Ursula is venerated as a patroness of students, teachers, and women.

Ursula Andress is a Swiss actress and former Bond girl. She gained international fame for her role as Honey Ryder in the 1962 James Bond film "Dr. No." Her iconic entrance emerging from the sea in a white bikini has become an iconic image in film history. Ursula K. Le Guin was an American author known for her works of speculative fiction, including the Earthsea series and the novel "The Left Hand of Darkness." Le Guin's writings explored themes of gender, race, and society, and she was considered one of the most influential science fiction and fantasy authors of her time.