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ArchivesRe: thats great and all but how exactally do last names start?¿?
in reply to a message by penny acotn
Well, I remember learning that people were known by their occupation. You could be "Marcus the farmer" and in time, I guess it morphed into "Marcus Farmer." Or say you were a blacksmith, then in time you'd take on the surname "Smith." Or in some countries, one was simply known by who their father was, like "Son of Eric" or "Son of David." That's why today you see names like "Ericson" and "Davidson."
Anyway, I'm sure there are other people on the board that are WAY more apted at handling this topic, but I wanted to lend my thinking on the matter. (Hope it wasn't too confusing!) Thanks. ^_^
Anyway, I'm sure there are other people on the board that are WAY more apted at handling this topic, but I wanted to lend my thinking on the matter. (Hope it wasn't too confusing!) Thanks. ^_^
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I'd just like to add that in Iceland most people still don't have hereditary surnames. In Mongolia people are just now being encouraged to adopt surnames, and about 50% of them have opted for the same surname.
The great French historian, Marc Bloch, wrote that people get surnames when the state starts to take an interest in them. I think he meant for tax purposes or for military service.
The great French historian, Marc Bloch, wrote that people get surnames when the state starts to take an interest in them. I think he meant for tax purposes or for military service.
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