When did the use of surnames become widely used? In what area of the world were they first used? Did the practice begin in one area and spread?
I am aware that different cultures have differing rules regarding how the name is situated with the given name, and the lineage of names. Any info would be helpful. Thank you.
2006-09-12 13:59:50 · 5 answers · asked by finaldx 7 in Arts & Humanities ➔ Genealogy
In some Islamic countries people still have just one name, especially in small towns. Robert would be "Robert" until he got into secondary school, where there were lots of Roberts. Then he would be "Robert, son of Charles", and if someone adressed him formally they would say "Mr. Robert", not "Mr. Charles".
2006-09-13 03:01:04 · answer #1 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Last names began as a sign of status, line of work, or relationship.
Last name king, for instance, was a sign of status--not that you were REALLY a king, but that you either acted like you were, or you were a bit of a hero to your area.
Last name Mason or Smith were based on line of work, as were many other. (Stone mason, blacksmith...)
Family relations: Things like Johnson really started because people were tired of saying "He's John's Son."
2006-09-12 17:35:15 · answer #2 · answered by Esma 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
well your last name has to do with where u come from
i don't know what practice u r talking about so good luck with that
2006-09-12 14:07:15 · answer #3 · answered by sarah 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
http://surnames.behindthename.com/intro.php
2006-09-12 14:07:21 · answer #4 · answered by jaimestar64cross 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
huh?
2006-09-12 14:06:01 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋