The name Shawna is of Irish origin and is a variant of the Gaelic name Siobhán, which means "God is gracious." This name is derived from the Old Irish "siub," meaning "peaceful," and the diminutive suffix "-án."

The earliest recorded use of the name Shawna dates back to the 19th century in Ireland. It gained popularity in the United States in the mid-20th century as an Anglicized version of the traditional Irish name Siobhán.

One of the earliest known references to the name Shawna can be found in the Irish poem "Cath Muighe Rath" (The Battle of Moira), written in the 7th century. The poem mentions a character named Siobhán, which is considered the root of the name Shawna.

In terms of historical figures, one notable bearer of the name Shawna was Shawna Shenstone, an English writer and feminist who lived from 1867 to 1945. She was known for her advocacy of women's rights and her contributions to the suffragette movement.

Another notable Shawna was Shawna Corbett-Rice, an American actress and singer who was born in 1957. She is best known for her roles in various Broadway musicals, including "Dreamgirls" and "The Wiz."

Shawna Harding, an American figure skater, was born in 1970. She won numerous championships and medals throughout her career, including a gold medal at the 1991 World Figure Skating Championships.

In the field of sports, Shawna Gordon was a Canadian basketball player who represented Canada at the 2000 and 2004 Summer Olympics. She was born in 1975 and played professionally in various leagues around the world.

Lastly, Shawna Leelyn Trpcic was a Canadian artist and painter who lived from 1960 to 2017. Her works were widely exhibited and celebrated for their vibrant colors and unique style, reflecting her passion for nature and the environment.

While the name Shawna has Irish roots, it has gained popularity across various cultures and regions, becoming a beloved name for many families worldwide.