DNA Testing: Everything you wanted to know about DNA Testing and Genealogy
The study of family genealogy is nothing new, however recently there has been a recent uprising in the field of developing new techniques to trace your roots. While using the traditional method of tracing your family history one can run into many obstacles along the way such as: name changes, migrations, and destroyed records. DNA testing offers a way that the search can continue once traditional methods have failed. This type of testing has helped to solve mysteries, reunite families, and help people to learn about their own heritage.
DNA testing for genealogy is performed to determine specific qualities of the DNA such as: ethnic origin, migration route, and relation to other family members. There are a variety of tests that can be performed that range in price. Some tests can be used to determine the lineage of all of the male ancestors or all the female ancestors; and others can be done to determine more precise details such as the geographic origin or a relation to a particular group.
An interesting example as to the insight a DNA genealogy test can reveal is the testing that was done among Jewish people having the last name of Cohen. The name itself means priest, which was to indicate lineage to the biblical figure Aaron. When this technology became available, scientists began to test many people with the last name Cohen, discovering that many of these people had in fact shared a common ancestor. This illustrated the reliability of naming traditions.
Many companies offer simple, painless ways to test your DNA. Many use a swab to obtain samples from the inside of your cheek. DNA testing kits can be obtained on the internet. They are sent to you in the mail, you receive instructions, tools, and the required materials to return the sample. You simply follow the instructions and mail it back to the company, where they take care of the rest. Many companies will return to you a detailed report of the test findings and possibly a lesson in genetics. Some companies offer to let you search for biological relatives they may have on file. However, privacy is always observed.
The effect of DNA testing on genealogy research will be interesting to watch, as people begin to construct their family trees. This is a great way to overcome obstacles when using traditional genealogy methods to trace your lineage. This can help to link you to unknown relatives or even famous people. It may fill in gaps in your current research as to exactly where your ancestors are derived from and how you got where you are today. These tests can be obtained for a fee via the mail. You perform the test at home and send it back to have it analyzed. Once analyzed the detailed DNA testing results are returned to you for your review.