When Did Last Names Start: A History of Surname Origins

Last names, also known as surnames, are an integral part of our identity and a window into our ancestry. But when did they first start appearing? The origins of last names are a fascinating journey through history, tracing back to different periods and cultures. This guide delves into the history of surnames, exploring their various origins and the reasons behind their development.
1. **Smith:** Derived from the Old English word "smithe," meaning "blacksmith," this surname was given to those who worked in the metalworking trade.
2. **Jones:** A common surname of Welsh origin, it derives from the Welsh word "John" meaning "God is gracious."
3. **Williams:** Another Welsh surname, derived from the Welsh word "William," meaning "resolute protector" or "strong helmet."
4. **Brown:** This surname originated from the Middle English word "brown," referring to someone with brown hair or complexion.
5. **Davis:** A patronymic surname derived from the Welsh name "David," meaning "beloved."
6. **Miller:** This surname was given to those who worked as millers, grinding grain into flour.
7. **Wilson:** A patronymic surname derived from the English name "William," meaning "resolute protector."
8. **Moore:** This surname is of English origin, derived from the Old English word "mōr," meaning "moor" or "marshland."
9. **Taylor:** Derived from the Old French word "tailleur," meaning "tailor."
10. **Anderson:** A patronymic surname derived from the Scandinavian name "Anders," meaning "man of humanity."
11. **Thomas:** A patronymic surname derived from the English name "Thomas," meaning "twin."
12. **Jackson:** A patronymic surname derived from the English name "Jack," which is a nickname for "John," meaning "God is gracious."
13. **White:** Derived from the Middle English word "white," referring to someone with fair skin or hair.
14. **Harris:** A surname of English origin, derived from the Old English word "hari," meaning "hare."
15. **Martin:** A surname of French origin, derived from the Latin name "Martinus," meaning "warlike."
16. **Thompson:** A patronymic surname derived from the English name "Thomas," meaning "twin."
17. **Garcia:** A common Spanish surname derived from the Basque word "garci," meaning "bear."
18. **Rodriguez:** A patronymic surname derived from the Spanish name "Rodrigo," meaning "famous ruler."
19. **Martinez:** A patronymic surname derived from the Spanish name "Martin," meaning "warlike."
20. **Hernandez:** A patronymic surname derived from the Spanish name "Hernando," meaning "brave ruler."
21. **Lopez:** A patronymic surname derived from the Spanish name "Lope," a nickname for "Rodrigo," meaning "famous ruler."
22. **Gonzalez:** A patronymic surname derived from the Spanish name "Gonzalo," meaning "warlike."
23. **Perez:** A patronymic surname derived from the Spanish name "Pedro," meaning "stone."
24. **Robinson:** A patronymic surname derived from the English name "Robin," a nickname for "Robert," meaning "bright fame."
25. **Clark:** Derived from the Middle English word "clerk," referring to a learned person or scribe.
26. **Lewis:** A patronymic surname derived from the English name "Louis," meaning "famous warrior."
27. **Lee:** A surname of Chinese origin, meaning "plum tree."
28. **Walker:** Derived from the Old English word "wealcan," meaning "to walk."
29. **Hall:** This surname was given to those who lived in or near a hall, a large building.
30. **Allen:** A surname of English origin, meaning "handsome" or "noble."
31. **Young:** Derived from the Old English word "geong," meaning "young."
32. **Hernandez:** A patronymic surname derived from the Spanish name "Hernando," meaning "brave ruler."
33. **King:** This surname was given to those who were kings or held positions of authority.
34. **Wright:** Derived from the Middle English word "wrihte," meaning "craftsman."
35. **Lopez:** A patronymic surname derived from the Spanish name "Lope," a nickname for "Rodrigo," meaning "famous ruler."
36. **Hill:** This surname was given to those who lived in or near a hill.
37. **Scott:** A surname of Scottish origin, derived from the Gaelic word "scuit," meaning "Scotsman."
38. **Green:** Derived from the Middle English word "grene," meaning "green."
39. **Adams:** A patronymic surname derived from the English name "Adam," meaning "man."
40. **Baker:** This surname was given to those who worked as bakers.