Surname Overview
Overview and Distribution
The surname Rou is pronounced róu and is currently uncommon. It is distributed in Beijing, Taiyuan, Datong, Yangquan, Linfen and Shuozhou in Shanxi, as well as Wuhan in Hubei.
Rou Surname
Population reference (not a current census): 8Rou / Rou
Origins
Several origin traditions are recorded for the Rou surname: one traces it to the state of Roupu, taking the state name as the surname; another traces it to the Si surname and the descendants of Yu the Great; other accounts connect it with the Tangut people and a change from the Dabo surname.
Historical Records
Documentary Attestations
The Xu Tongzhi: Shizulüe records the Rou surname. The Shanhaijing mentions the state of Roupu, and the related surname account is also found in the Xingyuan.
Commanderies and Clan Halls
Commandery and Hall Name
The Rou clan's commandery was Shuofang Commandery, and its hall name was Shuofang Hall.
Migration and Distribution
One account states that descendants of the Rouran moved to present-day Lin County, Shanxi, in 555. The surname is found in Jiexiu, Shanxi, and in Baiwen Town of Lin County.
Notable People
Historical Figure
Rou Siyi was a Wujie Dafu official of Western Xia.
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