Surname Overview
Overview
The surname You is pronounced Yǒu and is currently rare.
Yǒu Surname
Population reference (not a current census): 5Yǒu / Yu
Origins
Two traditions are recorded: one traces the surname to descendants of the Yellow Emperor, as stated in the Shiben; the other traces it to descendants of Fuxi who ruled Youyang in Qianzhong and later adopted the place name as their surname, as stated in the Xingkao.
Historical Records
Documentary Records
The Guangyun, Tongzhi, Xingshi Jiujiupian, Shizudian, and Xu Tongzhi record the surname You and related figures.
Migration and Distribution
Present Distribution
The surname is currently found in Jing County, Hebei; Datong and Linfen, Shanxi; and Mingshan, Sichuan. It is also distributed in Xintai, Shandong; Taipei and Tainan, Taiwan; and Huixian, Henan.
Notable People
Historical Figures
You Mu was a native of Chenliu in Wei during the Warring States period. You Ren was a native of Wuling in the Ming dynasty and served as a magistrate of Guangxin Prefecture during the Chenghua era.
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