In the past hundred years, there has been an astronomical number of new inventions that have been created that have made life much easier and more interesting. One of these revolutionary inventions was the creation of DNA testing. DNA testing has been used since the mid-80s to solve complicated criminal cases but has only been available for genealogical purposes for the past twenty years. Continue reading to learn more about DNA testing and why it is important in the field of genealogical research.
What Is DNA Testing?
Firstly, let’s define what DNA testing is. DNA testing, sometimes referred to as genetic testing, is a process that involves testing a person’s genetic makeup (otherwise known as their DNA). DNA is the chemical archive in your body that contains information about how your body functions and the unchanging distinctive characteristics about you.
DNA is what makes your eyes blue and decides what height you will be. DNA is the essence of a person that controls the way a person looks and sometimes has a hand in the way that a person behaves. DNA testing can determine many things, including a person’s risk of developing different conditions and disorders and where a person’s ancestors may have been from.
Why Is DNA Testing Important?
DNA testing is an important discovery for many reasons. Firstly, genetic testing has transformed the medical field. Now, a DNA test can help doctors reach diagnoses and can help prevent diseases in individuals due to having greater foresight. DNA testing is also commonly used in the field of forensics. Genetic testing is vital for identifying matches between biological matter found at crime scenes and criminal suspects. Paternity tests are also available, which means that people everywhere can learn who their parents are if they do not know them. This is also important in child custody cases when an individual needs to prove their relation to the child.
Can DNA Testing Be Used For Genealogical Purposes?
The simple answer to this question is YES! As previously mentioned, DNA testing can be used to determine paternity. That means genealogists can also find other matches to other family members, helping people connect with other ancestors or members of their families that are still alive. Family historians typically use Y-chromosome testing to find matches on your father’s side, while mitochondrial tests are used to find matches on your mother’s side. DNA testing can help you find relatives, connect with them, and find common ground together.
Do You Want To Learn More About Your Family History?
If you are interested in learning more about your family history, we at Heritage Consulting may be of great help to you. We offer many resources that aren’t found in many other places. Our talented genealogy experts are an excellent resource that can help you find out much more about your family. Feel free to reach out to us to learn more about DNA testing for genealogy or your family history. Contact us today for more information.