Hanks Last Name Origin, History, and Meaning
Where did the surname Hanks come from? What does the surname Hanks mean? Discover the history and meaning of the last name Hanks and family migration on YourRoots Map.
Hankin, Hankes
Surname Hanks Origin: What does the last name Hanks mean?
The surname Hanks is of English or Dutch origin, meaning "son of Hankin." It first appeared in records in the United Kingdom around the early 15th century, according to YourRoots data. The name remained closely associated with the UK in the 15th and 16th centuries, but by the 17th century, there was a significant increase in Hanks family records in the United States, indicating its spread across the Atlantic.
From the 17th century onwards, the volume of Hanks surname records grew rapidly in the United States, surpassing those in the UK. Today, based on YourRoots data, the surname "Hanks" is prominently found in the United States, with a presence in other regions and countries worldwide, showcasing its global spread and evolution over the centuries.
Hanks Last Name History: Where did the last name Hanks come from?
Origin of Hanks Surname: Where does the last name Hanks originate from?
According to YourRoots data, the surname Hanks first appeared in records from the United Kingdom around the early 15th century. Please note that this reflects only YourRoots data for the exact “Hanks” spelling and does not include other record sources or surname variations.
History of the Last Name Hanks: What does the Hanks surname history look like in the early days?
The “Hanks” surname remained closely associated with the United Kingdom from the 15th through the 16th century. However, by the start of the 17th century, YourRoots data shows a significant increase in the volume of Hanks family records in the United States, indicating the start of its spread across the Atlantic.
Global Spread: Where can we find the Hanks surname today?
From the 17th century onwards, the volume of records with the Hanks surname grew rapidly in the United States. Through the 18th and 19th centuries, the number of Hanks records in the United States consistently surpassed those in the United Kingdom. Today, based on YourRoots data, the “Hanks” surname appears prominently in the United States, but can also be found in other regions and countries worldwide.
Explore Hanks last name heritage and Hanks surname origin based on YourRoots Map data

Famous People With Hanks Surame?
John Hanks
John Hanks (Feb 9, 1802 - Jul 1, 1889) was Abraham Lincoln's influential first cousin, once removed. Known for his role in Lincoln's early life, he gained national fame during the 1860 presidential campaign. Hanks served in the Black Hawk War and supported Lincoln's political endeavors, making him a key figure in American history.
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