Genealogy Essays

by W. Mullins

Cultural Ancestors and Genetic Ancestors

How genetically related are we to our distant ancestors? The answer is, very little, but they do pass on a rich cultural heritage to us. This essay explores the complex question of genetic v. cultural inheritance.

Is Everyone with European Ancestry Descended from Charlemagne?

If you have any European ancestry, it is a near mathematical certainty that you are descended from Charlemagne. In fact, he probably appears in your family tree thousands of times. Hard to believe? Learn why in this essay.

Limitations of y-DNA Testing

y-DNA testing is very accurate – but the story gets complicated in some families. Read about some unusual exceptions and pitfalls in using y-DNA to determine family lineages.

Why y-DNA?

Why is y-DNA uniquely important and valuable in establishing our ancestry? This essay explores the use of y-DNA in genealogy.