Hi, We generally accept that the usage of surnames began in the 12th century, although there are exceptions to this statement. Generally, however, from that time on, each inhabitant of a village was given a name (later called the first or Christian name) and a nickname (which later became the surname). At first, these were true nicknames. The British have continued to use them as such, while the French have continued use of the “prénom,” or first name, and “nom de famille” or family surname. To find out more : http://www.geneanet.org/chronic.php3?lang=en&news=CH12 Regards Norma -- GeneaNet : Genealogical Database Network : http://www.geneanet.org/ **DISCOVER OUR NEW FEATURE TODAY** **DECOUVREZ AUJOURD'HUI LE NOUVEAU SERVICE GENEANET**