Guang Surname

Surname Overview

Pronunciation and Form

The surname is written 广 in simplified Chinese and 廣 in traditional Chinese, pronounced guǎng, and is relatively rare.

Reference: 广姓_广姓的来源和历史_百家姓

Origins

Two Early Lineages

One lineage is traditionally traced to descendants of Guangchengzi, who used Guangcheng before Guang; another developed when descendants of the Western Han Lords of Guangwu, Chen Yu and Li Zuoche, shortened Guangwu to Guang.

Reference: 广姓大全 - 族谱宝

Manchu Adoption of the Surname

During the Qing period, some Manchu families including the Gaogiya and Guanggiyara clans adopted Guang through sinicization.

Reference: 广姓怎么读？guǎng还是guàng？一文讲清正确读音与姓氏渊源 - 百度文库

Commanderies and Clan Halls

Danyang Commandery and Hall

The Guang clan’s commandery association is Danyang, and its hall name includes Danyang Hall. Because places called Danyang changed over time, the specific Danyang connected with the clan is disputed.

Reference: 广姓_广姓的来源和历史_百家姓

Migration and Distribution

Modern Distribution

The Guang population is small and is found in Wuhai, Hancheng, Jiuquan, Lushi, Wuchang, Chenghai, Tianlin, Longchuan, Maguan, Hejiang, and other places. The Chenghai branch is concentrated mainly in Dongli Town.

Reference: 广姓大全 - 族谱宝

Notable People

Historical Figures

Recorded figures include Guang Ming of the Han dynasty, Guang Han, a Song assistant prefect of Ganzhou, Guang Song, a Ming regular-script clerk, and Guang Hou, a Qing governor of Hunan.

Reference: 广姓_广姓的来源_广姓族谱_姓氏广姓的名人_广氏家谱_百家姓