The name Benson has its origins in the Old English language, derived from the words "ben" meaning "bean" and "son" meaning "son." This combination suggests that the name originally referred to "the son of a bean farmer" or someone associated with the cultivation of beans. The name emerged in England during the Anglo-Saxon period, which lasted from the 5th to the 11th centuries.

The earliest recorded instances of the name Benson can be traced back to the Domesday Book, a comprehensive survey of land ownership and property rights in England compiled in 1086 by order of King William the Conqueror. The name appears in various spellings, such as "Bensun" and "Benson," indicating its widespread use at the time.

One of the earliest notable figures bearing the name Benson was Saint Benson, an English Catholic martyr who was executed in 1590 for his refusal to renounce his faith during the English Reformation. He was canonized by the Catholic Church in 1970.

In the realm of literature, the name Benson gained prominence through the works of Arthur Christopher Benson (1862-1925), an English essayist, poet, and author best known for his autobiographical works, including "The Leaves of the Tree" and "The House of Quiet."

Another notable bearer of the name was Edward Frederic Benson (1867-1940), an English novelist and biographer, and the elder brother of E.F. Benson. He is best known for his biographical works on figures such as Queen Victoria and Alwyn Carr.

In the field of astronomy, William Samuel Benson (1855-1932) was an English amateur astronomer who made significant contributions to the study of variable stars and double stars. He was also a prolific writer on astronomical topics.

Frank Weston Benson (1862-1951) was an American Impressionist painter and a member of the Ten American Painters group. He is renowned for his works depicting scenes of daily life, particularly those featuring children and coastal landscapes.

These are just a few examples of individuals who have borne the name Benson throughout history, reflecting its longevity and enduring presence across various fields and cultures.