With over 1.4 billion people, China has the world's largest population, but one of the smallest surname pools. In contrast, the United States (report) to have 6.3 million surnames in its 2010 census (人口普查). So what is it leads to this vast difference?
It's (part) because of the difference in language. You can't just add a stroke (笔画) to a Chinese character and create a new surname. Technology is also a factor at play. We rely on technology on daily basis. The systems that process our information rely on a (limit) list of standardized Chinese characters, means that those with rare characters in their surnames may find using this technology difficult. It causes them (change) their last names out of convenience. Meanwhile, the (lose) of certain surnames over time is a naturally (occur) phenomenon. Given China's long history, it has lost more names over time, compared to younger countries. , this phenomenon is still one that Chinese people are struggling within the digital age.
