The name Abner is of Hebrew origin, derived from the Hebrew words "av" meaning "father" and "ner" meaning "light" or "lamp". It was a relatively common name in ancient Israel, believed to have been popular as early as the 11th century BCE.

One of the earliest and most notable references to the name Abner is found in the Old Testament of the Bible. Abner was a cousin of King Saul and the commander of his army. He played a pivotal role in establishing David as the successor to Saul's throne, although he was later killed by Joab, one of David's generals.

Another historical figure named Abner was a Jewish leader during the Hasmonean period, around the 2nd century BCE. He was one of the leading figures in the revolt against the Seleucid Empire and played a role in the establishment of an independent Jewish state.

In the Middle Ages, Abner was a relatively common name among Jewish communities in Europe. One notable bearer of the name was Abner of Burgos, a Spanish Jewish philosopher and poet who lived in the 14th century. He was known for his works on Jewish mysticism and his polemics against Christianity.

During the Renaissance period, Abner was a name adopted by some Christians, particularly in England and Scotland. One notable figure was Abner Coe (1619-1707), a Scottish Presbyterian minister and author who was influential in the religious and political affairs of his time.

In the United States, one of the earliest recorded instances of the name Abner was Abner Doubleday (1819-1893), a Union Army officer during the American Civil War who is often credited with inventing the game of baseball, although this claim is disputed.

Other notable individuals named Abner throughout history include:

1. Abner Coburn (1803-1885), an American businessman and politician who served as the 30th Governor of Maine.
2. Abner Kneeland (1774-1844), an American free-thinker and writer who was convicted of blasphemy in 1838.
3. Abner Doubleday (1819-1893), a Union Army officer during the American Civil War, often credited with inventing the game of baseball.
4. Abner W. Sibal (1870-1953), an American jurist and politician who served as the 10th Governor of Wisconsin.
5. Abner M. Shiple (1835-1898), a Union Army officer during the American Civil War and later a U.S. Representative from Illinois.