OSullivane

O'Sullivan is a common Irish surname. It is an anglicized form of the Gaelic surname Ó Súilleabháin. The prefix "Ó" translates to "descendant of," and "Súilleabháin" is a personal name derived from "súil," meaning "eye," and "dubháin," meaning "dark" or "black." Thus, Ó Súilleabháin means "descendant of the dark-eyed one." The surname is most strongly associated with the province of Munster in southwestern Ireland.

Historically, the O'Sullivan clan was a powerful Gaelic dynasty with lands primarily in what are now counties Cork and Kerry. They were a significant force during the medieval period and played a role in various Irish conflicts. The most famous bearer of the surname in modern times is arguably the British novelist and playwright Arthur O'Sullivan, known for his plays and short stories. Another notable figure is the American politician, John O'Sullivan, who served as a prominent journalist and advisor. The surname is widespread throughout Ireland and in countries with significant Irish diaspora, such as the United States, Canada, Australia, and the United Kingdom. It remains one of the most prevalent surnames of Irish origin.