Harrigan

Harrigan is a surname of Irish origin. It is an Anglicized form of the Gaelic Ó hArgáin (descendant of Argán), historically found in Ireland and among the Irish diaspora.

In popular culture, the name Harrigan is associated with the 1900 song Harrigan, written by George M. Cohan. The song presents a lighthearted portrait of a character named Harrigan and became widely known through American theatre and vaudeville, contributing to the name’s visibility in the United States.

As a surname, Harrigan is borne by individuals across a range of professions, including politics, sports, and the arts. The name is particularly common among communities with Irish heritage in Ireland, the United States, Canada, and other countries shaped by Irish immigration.

In fiction, characters named Harrigan appear in various works, reflecting the name’s use as a plausible Irish-derived surname. The use of Harrigan in literature and film underscores its function as a recognizable, culturally resonant surname.

Overall, Harrigan is a historically Irish surname that has persisted in modern times through genealogical lineages, popular culture references such as the George M. Cohan song, and its continued presence in public life and fiction.