The given name Stratton has its origins in the Old English language, emerging during the medieval period in England. It is believed to be derived from the Old English words "stræt" meaning "street" or "road," and "tun" meaning "town" or "settlement." Thus, Stratton can be interpreted as a name referring to someone who lived near or came from a town situated along a major road or thoroughfare.

In its earliest recorded usage, the name Stratton appeared as a surname or place name before eventually transitioning into a given name. One of the earliest documented references to the name can be found in the Domesday Book, a comprehensive survey of land ownership and taxation conducted in England in 1086 under the direction of William the Conqueror. The book mentions several locations with variations of the name, such as "Stratone" and "Stratuna."

Throughout history, the name Stratton has been borne by a number of notable individuals. One of the earliest recorded persons with this name was Robert de Stratton, an English landowner and knight who lived during the late 12th and early 13th centuries. He was involved in the Barons' War against King John and is mentioned in various medieval records.

Another prominent figure was Thomas Stratton (1519-1569), an English Roman Catholic martyr who was executed during the reign of Queen Elizabeth I for his refusal to renounce his religious beliefs. He is recognized as a Catholic saint and martyr by the Catholic Church.

In the realm of literature, Stratton Carew (1821-1892) was a British writer and poet known for his works on naval and maritime themes. His most famous work, "The Cruise of the Revenue-Steamer Corwin in Alaska and the N.W. Arctic Ocean," was published in 1887.

Moving into the 20th century, Stratton M. Brooks (1904-1977) was an American businessman and philanthropist who co-founded the Better Business Bureau and served as its president for many years. He played a significant role in establishing consumer protection standards and promoting ethical business practices.

Finally, Stratton Oakmont was the name of a notorious over-the-counter brokerage firm founded in the late 1980s by Jordan Belfort, whose exploits were dramatized in the 2013 film "The Wolf of Wall Street." The firm was shut down in 1996 after numerous instances of securities fraud and money laundering.