Family names, or surnames, have been used to identify individuals and families for centuries. But have you ever wondered where your family name comes from?
The origins of family names vary depending on the culture and language. Some family names were based on the person's profession, such as Smith or Baker. Others were based on the geographic location of the family or their ancestral home, such as Hill or Hampton. Family names in some cultures were based on the father's first name, such as Johnson or Ivanov.
In Chinese culture, family names come first and are followed by the given name. There are over 5,000 family names in China, but some are more common than others. The top three most common family names in China are Li, Wang, and Zhang.
Studying the origins of family names can provide insight into your family's history and cultural heritage. It can also be a fun way to connect with your ancestors and learn more about your roots.