Discovering Unanticipated Ancestry: My iGENEA DNA Test Journey

Discovering my roots through DNA testing on iGENEA, I found unexpected connections crossing geographical borders and cultural divide, reshaping my understanding of my ancestry named Little and myself.

Armed with iGENEA’s readings, I discovered a deep connection on my mother's side with Ashkenazi Jews, a group historically residing in Eastern Europe. My understanding was reshaped as I learned of their struggles, resilience, and cultural richness. This revelation spurred my interest in Jewish customs, making me appreciate my ancestors' tenacity through societal adversities. Uncovered were migratory patterns with the initial dwelling place traced back to the late medieval period.

On my father's side, archival records showed our ancestors were part of the early European settlers in America, integrally contributing to the formation of the New World. The discovery not only added a historical perspective but also helped me understand the strength and exploratory spirit deeply rooted in my lineage.

iGENEA unveiled an unexpected Asian trace - a late 16th-century ancestor from Mongolia. Suddenly, I was looking at intercontinental movements, cross-cultural assimilation, and the astounding heterogeneity of my genetic composition.

These findings have profoundly altered my perspective on my family history, connecting me with unfamiliar territories and cultures. Ultimately, the findings from the iGENEA DNA test deepened my self-understanding, making me acknowledge diverse roots, cultural influences, and the intricate tapestry that forms my ancestry. They reinforced my belief in the beauty of our shared humanity, appreciating my ancestors' journeys that made me who I am today.