| The history of surnames or last names, in English is a | | | | widespread use. English as a Foreign Language (EFL) |
| fascinating one. In the sixteenth century (from the | | | | learners find the topic a highly fascinating one - |
| 1530s to about 1700) nearly 70 per cent of all men in | | | | especially if their name is included. First we'll look at |
| England were named John, Thomas, William, Richard, | | | | how some English surnames were derived. |
| Robert, Henry, Nicolas, Walter and Edward. Women | | | | Surnames of Occupations |
| seemingly faired a bit better but nearly 70 per cent | | | | One key form was to distinguish people by their |
| of women were named Elizabeth, Joan, Margaret, | | | | occupations. This was especially effective if the |
| Anne, Alice, Agnes, Isabel, Jane, Mary, Katherine and | | | | person was highly skilled at their profession as many |
| Margery. So not surprisingly, when distinguishing family | | | | were - some even to the point of being renowned. |
| names became essential, surnames began being | | | | Here are some examples of occupation-related |
| "created" and used. Even in many | | | | surnames along with their general meanings. |
| non-English-speaking countries, English surnames are in | | | | |