Summary

The surname Harlan originated from England and has a rich history dating back to the medieval era. It is believed to be derived from the Old English personal name 'Hara' combined with the suffix 'land', meaning 'a person who lived on or owned land near a hare's warren'. Over time, the surname Harlan spread to other English-speaking countries through migration and has become prominent in various regions.
There are
11339
Harlans in the USA
Harlan is the
3188th
most common last name in the USA

Historical figures and celebrities called Harlan

JohnHarlan

John Harlan was an American jurist who served as an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States from 1877 to 1911. He was known for his conservative views and his dissenting opinions in several important cases.

RichardHarlan

Richard Harlan was an American physician and naturalist. He is known for his work in identifying and describing many new species, particularly in the fields of herpetology and mammalogy.

JohnMarshall

John Marshall Harlan was an American lawyer and politician who served as an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States from 1955 to 1971. He was known for his strong defense of individual rights and civil liberties.

JohnMarshall

John Marshall Harlan II was an American jurist who served as an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States from 1955 to 1971. He continued the tradition set by his grandfather, John Marshall Harlan, in defending civil rights and civil liberties.

BenjaminHarlan

Benjamin Harlan is an American composer and conductor known for his choral music compositions and arrangements. He has conducted choirs and orchestras around the world and has received numerous awards for his work.

RebeccaHarlan

Rebecca Harlan was an American physician and medical researcher who made significant contributions to the field of dermatology. She developed new treatments for skin conditions and pioneered the use of phototherapy.

JohnHarlan

John Harlan Willis was an American soldier who served in World War II. He was awarded the Medal of Honor posthumously for his bravery and sacrifice during the Battle of Okinawa.

MaryHarlan

Mary Harlan Lincoln was the wife of President Abraham Lincoln and the First Lady of the United States from 1861 until his assassination in 1865. She played an active role in her husband's administration and was known for her wit and intelligence.

SamuelHarlan

Samuel Harlan was an American politician who served as the Governor of Pennsylvania from 1820 to 1823. He was known for his efforts to improve education and infrastructure in the state.

SusieSharp

Susie Sharp Harlan was an American jurist who served as a Justice of the North Carolina Supreme Court from 1962 to 1979. She was the first woman to serve on the state's highest court.

Harlan Genealogy

OriginsThe surname 'Harlan' is of English origin. It is derived from the Old English personal name 'Hereweald,' which means 'army ruler.' The name 'Harlan' may also be of Irish origin, derived from the Gaelic surname 'Ó hArgadáin,' meaning 'descendant of Argadán,' a personal name of uncertain origin.
Geographic DistributionThe surname 'Harlan' is most commonly found in the United States, particularly in Kentucky and surrounding areas. It is also found in smaller numbers in other English-speaking countries such as Canada and Australia.
VariationsVariations of the surname 'Harlan' include 'Harland' and 'Harlen.'
Migration and ImmigrationThe name 'Harlan' has been carried by immigrants to various countries, particularly during periods of English colonization and settlement.