Shaw is a surname of English and Chinese origin, also used as a given name. In English, it is derived from Old English roots meaning "woodland" or "thicket." In Chinese contexts, Shaw is a romanization of the surnames 邵 (Shao) or 萧 (Xiao), especially in the United States. The English surname is of English and Scottish origin, and in some cases, an Americanization of a similar-sounding Ashkenazic Jewish surname. It is a topographic name for someone who lived by a copse or thicket, derived from Old English roots. The name can also be a habitational name derived from places named after these words. The English surname was established in Ireland during the 17th century.Notable individuals with the given name "Shaw" include Shaw Clifton, 18th General of The Salvation Army, Walter Shaw Sparrow, a British writer on art and architecture, and Shaw Taylor, a British actor and TV presenter. Notable individuals with the surname "Shaw" include a wide range of personalities, from historians and politicians to athletes and artists, such as George Bernard Shaw, the Irish playwright, and Fiona Shaw, an Irish actress known for her role in the Harry Potter films.These individuals have made significant contributions in their respective fields, leaving a lasting impact on society and culture.

Shaw and Crompton, located in Greater Manchester, England, is a civil parish with a rich historical background. The area's history dates back to ancient British and Anglian activity, with evidence of Bronze Age human activity and Roman influence. During the Industrial Revolution, textile manufacture led to rapid urbanization, and by the late 19th century, Shaw and Crompton had emerged as a densely populated mill town with numerous cotton mills. At its peak, the area had more millionaires per capita than any other town in the world. However, the decline of the textile industry in the mid-20th century led to the closure of the last mill in 1989. Today, Shaw and Crompton covers 4.5 square miles and is a predominantly suburban area with a population of 21,065. The legacy of its industrial past is evident in the surviving cotton mills, which are now home to large distribution companies. The name "Shaw" is derived from the Old English word for "wood," while "Crompton" may mean "river-bend settlement." The merger of Shaw and Crompton formed the present-day town, with Shaw dominating Crompton due to urbanization and the establishment of a separate ecclesiastical parish.

John Shaw Neilson (1872–1942) was an Australian poet known for his exquisite portrayal of the natural world. Despite limited formal education and a life of manual labor, Neilson's lyrical poetry captured the beauty of nature and garnered him recognition as one of Australia's finest poets. Born in Penola, South Australia to Scottish ancestry, Neilson's early years were shaped by the hardships faced by his family in rural Australia. His father, a shepherd and farmer, instilled a love for literature in Neilson, who found solace in reading poetry and eventually began writing his own verses. Neilson's poetic journey saw him contributing to various publications, including The Bulletin and The Bookfellow, despite his declining eyesight. His notable works include "Heart of Spring" and "Ballad and Lyrical Poems," which received acclaim for their unparalleled English lyrics. In 1928, Neilson found respite from physical labor when he was appointed as a messenger at the Country Roads Board in Melbourne. Throughout his life, Neilson's deep connection to nature and his evocative poetic expressions continue to inspire and resonate with readers worldwide.

Shaw Clifton (21 September 1945 – 29 May 2023) was the 18th General of the Salvation Army, born to Salvation Army officer parents stationed in Northern Ireland. He dedicated his life to serving the Salvation Army, starting as an officer in 1973 and eventually becoming the General in 2006, succeeding John Larsson. Clifton's extensive career saw him serve in various capacities across different territories, including Zimbabwe, the United Kingdom, the United States, Pakistan, New Zealand, Fiji, and Tonga. He was known for his advocacy for social justice, addressing issues such as human trafficking and promoting talented women leaders within the Salvation Army. Clifton was also a prolific author, having written several books on topics related to Christian ethics, practical holiness, and Salvationist viewpoints. He passed away in 2023 at the age of 77, leaving behind a legacy of leadership, service, and dedication to the Salvation Army's mission.

Zell Shaw Blackmon, born on May 27, 1973, is a prominent American politician affiliated with the Republican Party. He has been representing the 146th district in the Georgia House of Representatives since 2015. Blackmon's dedication to public service and his contributions to the political landscape have earned him widespread recognition. With a strong commitment to serving the interests of his constituents, he has played a pivotal role in shaping legislative decisions and advocating for the community. Blackmon's leadership and unwavering commitment to his political responsibilities have solidified his position as a respected figure in Georgia's political arena. His influence and dedication continue to make a significant impact on the state's governance and the lives of its citizens.