Chapter 10

DNA Genealogy

The most important advance in genealogy in the last 20 years after the Internet is DNA genealogy. Many different companies and websites can help you pursue this aspect of family history. However, this field has jargon and terms that can make your head spin, so let’s look at that part first.

DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) is a nucleic acid molecule. It makes up the chromosomes that contain genes. Genes determine the hereditary characteristics that pass from one generation to the next. You have seen television shows where DNA solved crimes; now it is being used to solve genealogy!

As far as chromosomes go, you will remember from high school biology that girls have XX and boys have XY. That Y-chromosomechanges (mutates) ...

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