When were surnames first given?

Surnames began to be used in Europe during the Middle Ages, around the 11th century, though their origins can be traced back even earlier in some cultures. Initially, they were often based on a person's occupation, location, or a descriptive feature. The adoption of surnames became more widespread by the 13th century as populations grew and the need for differentiation increased. In other regions, such as China and the Middle East, surnames have a much longer history, dating back thousands of years.