Liu is a common Chinese surname, often romanized as "Liu" in English. It is one of the most prevalent surnames in China, with millions of people bearing this name. The character for Liu (刘) has historical significance and is associated with various notable figures throughout Chinese history. In addition to being a surname, Liu can also refer to various places, cultural references, and even fictional characters in literature and media. For example, Liu Bei is a famous historical figure from the Three Kingdoms period, known for his leadership and founding of the Shu Han state.