Surname Overview
The surname Yi is pronounced yī and ranks 239th in the Hundred Family Surnames.
Yi Surname
Population reference (not a current census): 189,055Yi / Yi
Origins
Three Origins
The recorded origins include descendants of the ancient Emperor Yao, descendants of the Shang minister Yi Yin, and a change from the historical Yilou lineage.
Additional Origins
Additional listed origins include the Yiqi lineage, the official title Yiqi, and Hui, Oroqen, and Mongol groups.
Historical Records
Recorded Commanderies
The Record of Commandery-Based Hundred Surnames places the Yi lineage in Chenliu, while the Investigations into Surnames records Chenliu, Henan, and Shanyang.
Commanderies and Clan Halls
Commandery And Hall
The Yi surname uses the hall name Rensheng Hall; its recorded commanderies include Chenliu, Henan, and Shanyang.
Migration and Distribution
Migration And Distribution
The Yi surname originated in the Yishui basin of Henan and was active in the Central Plains in early periods. Traces appeared in present-day Shandong and Shanxi during the Han and Tang, with Chenliu as its commandery seat. Since the Song period, it has spread to many regions and is currently more numerous in Hebei.
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Surname attestation references
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