The name Jonathon is derived from the Hebrew name Yonatan, which means "Yahweh has given" or "gift of Yahweh." It has its origins in the ancient Hebrew language, and its earliest recorded use can be traced back to the Old Testament of the Bible.

In the biblical narrative, Jonathan was the eldest son of King Saul and a close friend of David. He was a brave warrior and a loyal ally to David, even going against his father's wishes to protect him. Jonathan's unwavering friendship and support for David are celebrated in the biblical accounts.

The name Jonathon has been used throughout history, with various spellings such as Jonathan, Jonathon, and Jonathane. One of the earliest recorded examples of the name can be found in the 11th century, when Jonathan the Scribe, a monk from Normandy, produced his famous works.

In the 16th century, the Protestant reformer Jonathan Edwards (1703-1758) was a prominent figure who made significant contributions to Christian theology and philosophy. His works, such as "Freedom of the Will" and "Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God," had a lasting impact on religious thought.

During the American Revolution, Jonathan Trumbull (1710-1785), known as "Brother Jonathan," was a prominent figure who served as the Governor of Connecticut and played a crucial role in supporting the Continental Army.

Another notable figure bearing this name was Jonathan Swift (1667-1745), the Irish satirist and author best known for his works "Gulliver's Travels" and "A Modest Proposal."

In the world of literature, Jonathan Franzen (born 1959) is a contemporary American novelist celebrated for his works, including "The Corrections" and "Freedom," which explore themes of family, identity, and modern life.