Category: History

How to Use Social History in Genealogy

Use these tips and records to study the social history that informed your ancestor's daily life and decisions, such as the economy, disease, and weather.

Vacation, All She Ever Wanted: Women’s Travel Diaries

Relive past adventures of some fearless females! Duke University has a gorgeous digital collection of historic women's travel diaries available online.

German Christmas Traditions to Celebrate the Season

These authentically German Christmas traditions are a great way to celebrate the season as well as your family's German heritage.

Touchdown! A “Genealogy” Timeline of NFL Teams

This handy football history timeline tells you the genealogy of today’s NFL teams, their “parent” teams, and the years they were established.

History of the Electric Fan Premium

How the electric fan and air conditioning changed the way our ancestors kept their cool.

Historical Research Maps: French Départements

Learn about your ancestors who strived for liberté, fraternité and égalité with this map of the French during and after the French Revolution.

Free 10 Essential Genealogy Research Forms

Family History by the Numbers: Summer Vacation Premium

From beach getaways to frozen treats, celebrate the season! Enjoy these 9 number-based facts relating to the history of summer vacation.

Why Is July an Unlucky Month for Weddings? (And Other Wedding Traditions) Premium

Weddings are highly superstitious events. But have you ever heard that it’s bad luck to get married in July? Learn why and the history of other wedding traditions.

Made in the Shades: The History of Sunglasses Premium

June 27 is National Sunglasses Day! Learn about the history of shades and, thanks to a little genealogy research, more about the man who made them cool.