A family tree is a chart representing the relationships and dates of birth of family members, often reaching back many generations. Family trees are usually drawn out with the oldest generations at the top, descending to the more recent generations. The study and tracing of family members is known as genealogy. Hobbyist genealogists usually work out the ancestry for themselves or their loved ones.
Online Resorces
Today's social networks like GenealogyWise, Geni, and Ancestry.com make the study of one's family history more enjoyable then ever before. Family stories can be shared with others at lightening speeds. Questions can be answered. Those all important clues are there to be found.
YouTube: Family Tree Building
Short stories about people's journey along the search for their Family Tree! Learning about one's family history is an exciting part of genealogy!
References
Fast Facts
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Fact:
The longest family tree in the world today is that of the Chinese philosopher Confucius (551-479 BC)Terra Daily: Confucius Family Tree
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Fact:
The image of the family tree may have originated with one in medieval art
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Fact:
Family names are one of the most important parts of genealogyHints and Things: Family Names
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Talking to family and friends is a good way to start gathering informationGenealogical Journeys: Gathering Information
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Census records are also a good source of informationKnowledge Hound: Records
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Fact:
Eighty Percent of marriages are between cousins!
