The name Johanna has its origins in the Hebrew language, derived from the name Yohanan, which means "Yahweh is gracious." It is a feminine form of the name John, and its earliest recorded use dates back to the 12th century in Europe.

The name gained popularity in various regions, including Germany, the Netherlands, and Scandinavia, where it was widely used. In Germany, the name was sometimes written as Johanne or Johanna, while in the Netherlands, it was often spelled as Janna.

In the Bible, the name Johanna is mentioned as one of the women who followed Jesus and provided for him out of their resources (Luke 8:3). This biblical reference contributed to the name's widespread adoption among Christian communities.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Johanna is found in the 12th-century writer and philosopher Hildegard of Bingen (1098-1179), who was also known as Johanna.

In the 16th century, Johanna I (1479-1555) was the Queen of Castile and Aragon, ruling over a unified Spain. Her reign marked a significant period in Spanish history.

Johanna Spyri (1827-1901) was a Swiss author best known for her beloved children's novel "Heidi," which has been translated into numerous languages and adapted for various media formats.

Johanna Brandt (1876-1964) was a South African botanist and educator who made significant contributions to the study of plant taxonomy and was instrumental in establishing the botanical gardens at the University of Cape Town.

Johanna Stegen (1876-1957) was a Norwegian-American artist and illustrator known for her intricate etchings and woodcuts depicting scenes from rural Norway and the American West.

Throughout history, the name Johanna has been carried by numerous influential women in various fields, including literature, art, science, and politics, reflecting its enduring popularity and cultural significance across different regions and time periods.