It's A Tense Situation

Hello Everyone,

Interesting thing to note...

Most books are written in past tense, 3rd person. I have come across some stories that are written in present tense, but still keep the 3rd person.

There are stories written first person and present tense...even one of mine has that (it just really worked for that story...I've had people read and say "It works." I don't really know how to explain why).

Third person past tense works a lot for most stories...I use it for most of mine, as well...why that is, I suppose, is because there isn't as much "I" so it doesn't sound so self-centered.

But my question is...does anyone know where they usage of third person past tense really started (at least for fiction novels)?

What keeps us using a certain POV and tense?

What tense do you generally use?

Have A Wondrous Wednesday!