The name Hanna is a variant of the Hebrew name Hannah, which means "grace" or "favor." It has its roots in ancient Hebrew culture, dating back to the biblical times.

The earliest recorded use of the name Hannah can be found in the Hebrew Bible, where it refers to the mother of the prophet Samuel. In the biblical narrative, Hannah was a devoted and pious woman who prayed fervently for a child and was eventually blessed with a son, Samuel, whom she dedicated to the service of God.

Throughout history, the name Hanna has been used across various cultures and religions. In the Christian tradition, it is associated with St. Anne, the mother of the Virgin Mary and the grandmother of Jesus Christ.

One of the earliest known historical figures with the name Hanna was Hanna the Patrician, a Byzantine noble and consul who lived in the 6th century AD. Another notable figure was Hanna Shyrinskaya, a Ukrainian noble and rebel leader who fought against Polish rule in the 17th century.

In literature, the name Hanna has been immortalized in works such as Hanna's Daughters by Marianne Fredriksson, a novel that explores the lives of three generations of Swedish women. Hanna Reitsch, a German aviator and test pilot, was a prominent figure in the 20th century, known for her daring flying feats during World War II (1912-1979).

The name Hanna has also been borne by several artists and writers, including the American novelist Hanna Pylväinen (born 1976) and the Swedish painter Hanna Pauli (1864-1916).

Across various cultures and time periods, the name Hanna has maintained a strong presence, often associated with grace, favor, and spiritual devotion. It has been carried by women from diverse backgrounds, each leaving their unique mark on history.