The name Shana has its origins in the Hebrew language and culture. It is a feminine form of the name Shaun or Shawn, which is derived from the Hebrew name Shavon, meaning "grace" or "favor." The name Shana first appeared in ancient Hebrew texts and scriptures, where it was associated with beauty, elegance, and divine favor.

In the Bible, the name Shana appears in the Book of Esther, where it is mentioned as the name of one of the maidens who attended to Queen Esther. This reference dates back to the 5th century BCE, indicating the antiquity of the name's usage.

One of the earliest recorded historical figures bearing the name Shana was Shana bat Shmuel, a 12th-century Jewish scholar and poet from Spain. She was known for her contributions to Hebrew poetry and her expertise in religious studies.

In the 17th century, Shana Spanier was a notable Dutch painter and engraver, renowned for her portraits and landscapes. She was born in 1628 and lived in Amsterdam, where she was an active member of the local artists' guild.

Another historical figure with the name Shana was Shana Tovah, a 19th-century Jewish activist and philanthropist from Poland. She was born in 1820 and dedicated her life to improving the living conditions of impoverished Jewish communities in Eastern Europe.

In the 20th century, Shana Alexander was a renowned American journalist and author. Born in 1925, she was known for her pioneering work in television journalism and her best-selling biographies of prominent figures such as Melvin Belli and J. Edgar Hoover.

Lastly, Shana Mangalam was an Indian classical dancer and choreographer who made significant contributions to the preservation and promotion of traditional Indian dance forms. She was born in 1932 and received numerous awards and accolades for her artistic achievements throughout her career.