The name Alanna has its origins in the Gaelic language, primarily used in Ireland and Scotland. It is derived from the Gaelic word "alain," which means "handsome" or "beautiful." The name likely emerged during the Middle Ages, around the 5th to 10th century AD, when Gaelic was widely spoken in these regions.

One of the earliest recorded uses of the name Alanna can be found in Irish mythology and folklore. In the medieval Irish legend, the "Fenian Cycle," there is a character named Alanna, who is described as a beautiful and skilled warrior woman. This legendary figure may have contributed to the popularity of the name in ancient Ireland.

The name Alanna gained further recognition in the 19th century with the publication of the novel "The Alanna Cycle" by Tamora Pierce. The series, which began in 1983, follows the adventures of a young girl named Alanna who disguises herself as a boy to train as a knight. This popular fantasy series helped to popularize the name in the modern era.

Throughout history, there have been several notable individuals named Alanna. One of the earliest recorded was Alanna, Princess of Leinster, who lived in Ireland in the 12th century. Another notable figure was Alanna Mitsui (1917-2012), a Japanese-American artist and educator known for her work in promoting cross-cultural understanding through art.

In the realm of literature, Alanna Knight (1923-2017) was a Scottish writer best known for her historical crime novels set in Victorian-era Edinburgh. In the field of music, Alanna Ubach (born 1975) is an American actress and singer who has lent her voice to various animated films and television shows.

Alanna Masterson (born 1988) is an American actress best known for her role as Tara Chambler in the popular television series "The Walking Dead." Additionally, Alanna Bess (born 1992) is a Canadian actress and singer who has appeared in various television shows and stage productions.

These are just a few examples of notable individuals who have carried the name Alanna throughout history, showcasing its enduring popularity and cultural significance across various regions and time periods.