Origin and History of the Surname 易
The surname "Yi" (易) has a deep historical and cultural significance in China. Derived from the ancient Chinese character meaning "change" or "easy", this surname carries with it a sense of adaptability and transformation.
One possible origin story of the Yi surname traces back to the Zhou Dynasty (周朝). According to legend, there was a minister named Jiang Shang (姜尚), who was later known as Tai Gong Wang (太公望). He had a descendant named Jiang Ziya (姜子牙), who was renowned for his wisdom and strategic prowess. It is said that one of his descendants changed their surname from Jiang to Yi, possibly due to some political or social reasons during that time.
Throughout history, many prominent figures have carried the surname Yi. Here are a few notable individuals:
1. Yi Zhongtian (易中天): A famous contemporary Chinese historian, writer, and TV personality. He is best known for his accessible and engaging explanations of Chinese history and culture.
2. Yi Jianlian (易建联): A professional basketball player who has played in both the NBA and CBA (China Basketball Association). He is considered one of the most successful Chinese basketball players in recent years.
3. Yi Shusheng (易书生): A noted calligrapher and painter in modern China, known for his unique style and dedication to traditional Chinese art forms.
The Yi surname, with its rich historical background and association with notable individuals, remains an important part of Chinese culture and heritage.