What is Ryan heritage?

Ryan is a predominantly Irish surname. It is an Anglicized version of the Gaelic surname Ó Riain. It is derived from the personal name Riain, which means "little king" or "mighty king". The name was first recorded in the 10th century in the Annals of Ulster. The surname Ryan is found throughout Ireland and is especially common in the counties of Tipperary, Waterford, and Cork.