In the past couple of articles, I have addressed newly wedded wives and name changes. I never knew so many options existed. In my research I found a very interesting piece of information about name changes across the world. I just had to share with you!
America (English speaking countries)
It is tradition in English speaking countries for the woman to take on the man’s name. There are several variations of how the woman does this. She may use her maiden name as a middle name or use her last name along with his and a hyphen. As a child, the girl is given her father’s name and then she changes it once she is married.
The Netherlands
Here, women legally keep the name they were given at birth. However, for other purposes they may use their husband’s name or a combination of both.
Belgium
Women use their birth name for most all purposes.
France
The woman keeps the name given at birth. She is allowed to use her husband’s name but it is usually seen written in terms of saying, “the spouse of…”
Germany
The woman may take the man’s name or the man may take the woman’s name or they can use both. However, one name has to be labeled as the family name to be given to the children. Until 2005, a combined name could not be given to the children.
Spanish Speaking World
Most persons have two surnames. Children are given their mother’s name and their father’s name. In some countries the woman simply adds the man’s name on to the surnames after the prepositions “de”. The woman may also use a hyphen.
China
Women keep their surnames.
Korea
The woman does not change her name. It is said that name change cannot identify the marriage. The women are also usually not addressed as “Mrs….”