When did people start using first names?

The use of first names dates back to ancient civilizations, with evidence from Mesopotamia and Egypt suggesting that personal names were used as early as 3000 BCE. In many cultures, individuals often had a single name, but as societies grew and became more complex, the need for distinguishing individuals led to the adoption of first names. The practice evolved over time, influenced by language, culture, and social structures. By the Middle Ages, the use of first names became more standardized in many parts of the world.