Its name is derived from the American Revolutionary War Battle of Great Bridge, which took place on December 9, 1775, and resulted in the final removal of British government from the Colony and Dominion of Virginia.

Though the battles of Lexington and Concord took place months earlier, and are historically more memorable, the Battle of Great Bridge can be seen as the first strategically important colonial victory over the British, forcing Lord Dunmore's 200 redcoats to evacuate Fort Murray and withdraw to Norfolk.

Great Bridge was essentially a small town or crossroads until the late 1980s and 1990s, when it experienced significant growth.

Also, Great Bridge was the home of professional baseball players, Michael Cuddyer, David Wright, B.J.

Former Virginia Tech, Denver Broncos, and Cleveland Browns defensive lineman Carlton Powell also hails from Great Bridge.