"America's Name Game: How Surnames Are Evolving in the U.S." A look at the past two centuries of American history reveals a surprising shift in the country's most common surnames. Despite the notion that classic last names have remained unchanged, new data suggests a significant change in the top spots. Since 1790, a small group of surnames - including Smith, Johnson, and Williams - have consistently topped the list. However, recent trends indicate a more diverse and dynamic landscape of American names. But what's driving this change, and which surnames are rising to the top?


Think you've got a classic last name? A small handful of surnames have dominated in the U.S. since 1790. But recent history tells a different story.