The surname "Bradshaw" is of English origin, derived from a place name in Lancashire, England. It is believed to mean "broad wood" or "broad clearing," reflecting the geographical features of the area. The name has been recorded since the 13th century and is associated with various historical figures and families. Bradshaw is also a common surname in other English-speaking countries, including the United States and Australia. Notable individuals with the surname include John Bradshaw, a 17th-century English lawyer and politician, and James Bradshaw, a contemporary British actor known for his work in television and film.