Graham is usually thought of as a Scottish name, though in fact it is originally a place name derived from Grantham in Lincolnshire (birthplace of former PM Margaret Thatcher.) In the 11th century Domesday Book, Grantham is sometimes written as Grandham or Graham. The name comes from the Old English grand "gravel" and the common suffix ham, "homestead." It then became adopted as a surname by the new Norman owners of the area. In the 12th century one of these, Sir William de Graham, went to Scotland and founded the influential Graham clan. Members of this were involved in the Jacobite rebellion and other famous historical struggles.
Graham began to be used as a given name more in the 20th century. Famous Grahams include TV entertainer Graham Norton and conspiracy theorist Graham Hancock. The name can also be spelled Grahame, or Graeme as in comedian Graeme Garden.
Graham began to be used as a given name more in the 20th century. Famous Grahams include TV entertainer Graham Norton and conspiracy theorist Graham Hancock. The name can also be spelled Grahame, or Graeme as in comedian Graeme Garden.
