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The origin of surnames

Somehow it was originated from totems – animal symbols. During the warring period (period of Five Emperors), troops were deployed where each of them was represented by an animal sign. The descendants of the soldiers then adopted these animal signs as their surnames. Example: Bear (熊).

Another study suggested surnames were used during the time when China was a matriarchal society. Surnames were given by mother. Hence surname (姓) is made up of the character girl (女) and 生 (Sheng) meaning “giving birth”. Usually surnames were devised during special events or occasions. For example, 姚 (Yao) could be derived from the event when a mother ate plum.

Some surnames were originated due to migration to new place. Some may originate from the official post of one’s ancestor. Others were changed to commemorate certain events. Also there were surnames adopted from an honorary title given by emperor.
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