Genealogy

Genealogy, history of the descent of a family, often rendered in a tabular list (family tree) in the order of succession, with the earliest known ancestor placed at the head and later generations placed in lines of direct and collateral descent. Genealogical tables are familiar from the Bible, especially the so-called Tree of Jesse (see Matthew 1:1-17). Genealogy also covers the study and research of pedigrees.

The most practical use of genealogy is in the proving of wills, when knowledge of descent is necessary, especially if a dispute occurs, to ensure that property goes to the right person. Genealogy has also been used when legitimacy is in question. One of the best and most practical modern uses of genealogy is in the medical field; physicians have, with considerable success, examined genealogical records for the origin of unusual diseases in present-day families.

The traditional method of those wishing to find their ancestors is to question parents and grandparents, for they are likely to possess written records and family Bibles, and their memories are often clear and accurate. From this start the researcher may visit libraries and courthouses and seek documentary evidence from municipal and village records and from church registers, which record weddings, christenings, and funerals. In the case of Americans, a family may be traced back to the time of its arrival in the new country. Research in the country of a family's origin is usually the most difficult because records may no longer exist and work may have to be conducted in a foreign language. British research is relatively easy because records were immaculately kept and few have been lost. Fortunately for U.S. researchers, American Mormons have the best worldwide modern records, for their missionaries spent many years copying pertinent documents in many foreign countries.

In the United States, and to some extent in Europe and the United Kingdom, genealogy has developed into a major hobby. The great surge in U.S. interest started in the 1930s, increased somewhat after World War II, but reached a crescendo in the 1970s, especially after the publication of Roots (1976) by Alex Haley, which showed that despite few extant records, it is possible with hard work and good luck to construct one's family history. Genealogical research is an important adjunct to the study of history.