O'HARA

Also recorded as O Hara, O' Hara, O'hara, Ohara

O'Hara

The surname O'Hara is of Irish origin and is derived from the Gaelic O'hEaghra, meaning "descendant of Eaghra". The name originated in County Sligo in the province of Connaught in Ireland. The O'Hara clan is considered one of the oldest and most distinguished families in Irish history, with a long tradition of leadership and military prowess.

The O'Haras were once powerful lords in the region, known for their fierce loyalty to their clan and their land. They were involved in many battles and conflicts throughout Irish history, including resisting English colonization efforts. The family motto, "Lamh laidir an uachtar" (The strong hand from above), reflects their strength and determination.

During the waves of Irish emigration in the 19th and 20th centuries, many O'Haras left Ireland for other parts of the world, including England, America, Australia, and Canada. As a result, the surname O'Hara can be found in various countries today, with descendants of the clan maintaining a strong sense of pride in their Irish heritage.

The name O'Hara has also been popularised in popular culture, through literature, film, and television. Notable individuals with the surname O'Hara include actress Maureen O'Hara and the fictional character Scarlett O'Hara from Margaret Mitchell's novel "Gone with the Wind."

Overall, the surname O'Hara holds a respected place in Irish and British history, symbolising a rich heritage of resilience, leadership, and cultural identity.

There are approximately 10,444 people named O'Hara in the UK. That makes it the 890th most common surname in Britain. Around 160 in a million people in Britain are named O'Hara.

Surname type: From name of parent

Origin: Celtic

Region of origin: British Isles

Country of origin: Ireland

Religion of origin: Christian

Language of origin: Gaelic

Typical given names associated with the surname

Male

  • David
  • James
  • John
  • Kevin
  • Michael
  • Patrick
  • Paul
  • Roger
  • Stephen
  • Thomas
  • William

Female

  • Anne
  • Catherine
  • Elizabeth
  • Karen
  • Margaret
  • Mary
  • Michelle
  • Patricia
  • Sarah
  • Susan

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