An exploration into the complex history of British surnames, delving into the past and examining the Norman, Saxon and Celtic roots of the names we still bear today. Whilst names are now passed from generation to generation, at one time they were based upon the individual, describing their jobs, morals or perhaps, as in Crane, their long legs. The Concise Dictionary of Surnames also charts the origins of many American, Canadian, Australian and New Zealander names, often adaptations or corruptions their European counterparts. Stuffed with facts and answering many old questions, this book can be read from cover to cover or just dipped into.