Scanlan

Scanlan is a surname of Irish origin, particularly prevalent among individuals of Irish descent. The name is derived from the Irish Gaelic "Ó Scannláin," which means "descendant of Scannlán," a personal name that translates to "contention" or "strife."

Origins

The Scanlan surname has its roots in County Limerick, County Clare, and County Tipperary in Ireland. It is believed to be linked to a prominent family or clan from these regions in the early medieval period.

Migration

The 19th century saw a significant number of Irish immigrants with the surname Scanlan, and variations thereof, move to the United Kingdom, particularly to England and Scotland. This migration was primarily driven by economic reasons and the Great Famine in Ireland.

Distribution

Today, the surname Scanlan is not very common in the United Kingdom, but it still carries significance among the Irish diaspora. It can be found in various parts of England, Scotland, and Wales, mainly in urban areas with historical ties to Irish immigration.

Notable Individuals

  • Shane Scanlan – A prominent Irish artist known for his paintings that depict rural Irish landscapes.
  • Eileen Scanlan – A British historian specialising in Irish studies, particularly focused on the impact of Irish migration in the UK.

In conclusion, the surname Scanlan is a testament to the rich history of Irish migration and settlement in the United Kingdom. Its bearers contribute to the cultural diversity and heritage of the British Isles, preserving a connection to their Irish roots.

There are approximately 2,457 people named Scanlan in the UK. That makes it roughly the 3,559th most common surname in Britain. Around 38 in a million people in Britain are named Scanlan.

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

  • Andrew
  • Christopher
  • David
  • James
  • John
  • Mark
  • Michael
  • Patrick
  • Paul
  • Robert
  • Thomas

Female

  • Amanda
  • Anne
  • Catherine
  • Christine
  • Claire
  • Elizabeth
  • Gillian
  • Julie
  • Linda
  • Margaret
  • Mary
  • Sarah
  • Susan

Similar and related surnames

Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.

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