|
Control of registering was implemented in Germany in 1875, with increased military ambitions. Everybody born had to be registered and so had their parents, their profession and where they are from.
The latter having even some specifics, such as a small landmark, where they are to be found.
Obviously to find the young man for military service if required.
The church had a similar system before, but didn't registered everyone, only members. Many Germans names are professions like
Schuster, Müller, Schmied, Spengler, Fickenwirt, Schäffer, Fassbinder and so on. Some are landscapes
Hügel, Hove, Höcker, Berg, Barg, Moor, Bach and so on Some added the man to it
Bergmann, Bargmann, Moormann and so on.
Or you have other interesting combinations.
Many names are construction from areas and professions, everything you would find on the new governmental register or the church register before that. I always thought it would be very logical to translate your specific landmark or job into a lastname. Just the typical lack of creativity of a governmental employee. I think it is similar for other countries. |