The name Hagen originates from the Germanic languages and has its roots in the Old Norse word "hagr" or the Old High German word "hagan", both meaning "hedge" or "enclosure". It was a common name among the ancient Germanic tribes, particularly the Saxons and Franks.

During the Middle Ages, the name Hagen gained prominence in various Germanic regions, including modern-day Germany, the Netherlands, and Scandinavia. It was often associated with nobility and warrior culture, as many historical figures bearing this name were renowned for their military prowess and leadership.

One of the earliest recorded mentions of the name Hagen can be found in the Nibelungenlied, a famous German epic poem from the 13th century. In this legendary work, Hagen is portrayed as a loyal and fearless warrior in the service of the Burgundian kings.

Throughout history, several notable individuals have borne the name Hagen. One of the most famous was Hagen von Tronje (c. 1150-1197), a German knight and a central figure in the Nibelungenlied. Another prominent Hagen was Walter von der Vogelweide (c. 1170-1230), a renowned German lyric poet and minnesingers of the Middle High German period.

In the field of science, Hagen is remembered for Gottfried Wilhelm von Leibniz (1646-1716), a German polymath who made significant contributions to mathematics, philosophy, and various scientific disciplines. Gottfried Hagen (1797-1884), a German hydraulic engineer, is also noteworthy for his work on fluid mechanics and the development of the Hagen-Poiseuille equation.

In the arts, Hagen von Enselenau (c. 1150-1190) was a prominent German minnesingers and poet, known for his courtly love songs and lyrical compositions. More recently, Walter Hagen (1892-1969) was an American professional golfer who won eleven major championships and is recognized as one of the greatest players in the sport's history.

While the name Hagen has its roots in ancient Germanic cultures, it has endured through the centuries and has been borne by individuals from various walks of life, including warriors, poets, scientists, and athletes, leaving an indelible mark on history.