Why is the name "Smith" so abundant and popular?

Question:

Why is the name "Smith" so abundant and popular?

Best Answer - Chosen by Asker: In the early Middle Ages, many people had only a single name, or used their first name and the name of the village or town where they lived. Some examples are John of Gaunt, Joan of Arc, Eleanor of Aquitaine. As the Middle Ages progressed, people engaged in trades such as sewing, tailoring, blacksmithing, milling, making books, started using their "trade" name in place of their "home" name. So, instead of John of Gaunt, you might have John the Miller or Joan the Wheelwright. Eventually, the "of" was left out, and people's trade names became their surname or last name. That's why there are so many Smiths, Taylors, Millers, Bookers, Wrights, Carpenters, etc. I hope this helps.