The name Hogan has its origins in the Irish language, derived from the Gaelic word "ó Cuagáin," which means "descendant of Cuagán." Cuagán was a personal name that can be traced back to the 9th century in Ireland. The name is believed to have been most commonly used in the counties of Tipperary and Kilkenny, where it was associated with prominent families and clans.

In its earliest form, the name was spelled as "O'Hogain" or "O'Hogan," with the prefix "O'" indicating a male descendant of the original bearer of the name. Over time, the spelling evolved to "Hogan" as the prefix was dropped and the name became more anglicized.

The name Hogan has been recorded in various historical documents throughout the centuries. One notable mention is in the Annals of the Four Masters, a chronicle of medieval Irish history compiled in the 17th century, which includes references to several individuals with the name Hogan or O'Hogan.

Some of the earliest recorded bearers of the name Hogan include:

1. Muiredach Hogan (fl. 1200s), an Irish poet and historian from County Tipperary.
2. John Hogan (c. 1600-1658), an Irish Catholic priest and leader during the Confederate Wars in Ireland.
3. James Hogan (1675-1730), an Irish sculptor and architect known for his work in Italy and England.
4. Michael Hogan (1832-1899), an Irish-American politician who served as the 20th Governor of Missouri.
5. Ben Hogan (1912-1997), a legendary American professional golfer and one of the greatest players in the history of the sport.

Throughout history, the name Hogan has been carried by individuals from various walks of life, including artists, politicians, religious figures, and athletes. While its roots can be traced back to Ireland, the name has gained recognition worldwide, transcending its cultural origins and becoming a part of the global tapestry of names.