How to Refer to Aunts and Uncles: Grand, Not Great
Great-uncle, or grand-uncle? Here's one perspective on the avuncular controversy.
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Same Name for Different People in Old Records
You knew all those search results with the same name were too good to be true. Through this case study, learn how to follow your actual ancestor's record trail and weed out the imposters.
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Now What: Understanding a Danish Surname
Danish surnames can be tricky. Make sure a record didn't list your ancestor's occupation as part of his name using these tips.
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Your Male Ancestors’ Nicknames
Can't find your male ancestor in a database? This male nicknames list will provide you the clues you need to identify them.
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Can You Claim a Coat of Arms Based on Your Last Name?
Should you hang up your family coat of arms - or show it off? We’ll untangle the myths of heraldry and help you start discovering your armigerous ancestry.
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Your Searchable Guide to Female Ancestor Nicknames
Can't find your female ancestor in a database? This nicknames list will provide you the clues you need to identify them.
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Researching Unusual Last Names for Genealogy
An unusual surname is a valuable tool for a genealogist. Discover six strategies to use oddball names in your tree to your greatest advantage.
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Understanding German Language and Surnames
Deutsch nicht sprechen? No problem! We reveal some common naming practices that can help in researching your German ancestors.
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Popular Historical Female Names
Knowing popular given names of a particular period can help you identify your ancestor in databases, indexes and records.
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Maiden Voyage
Are you lost at sea in your search for ancestral maiden names? We'll show you 10 places to lay anchor and find your female forebears.
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Name Calling
Mixed up by multiple monikers? Here's how to untangle the ancestral nicknames, name changes and spelling variations that can trip up your research.
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What’s in a Name?
Understanding the secrets of surnames can Unlock answers about your ancestors. Here's how to keep up with the Joneses—and how they got to be named Jones (or O'hara or Kovalenko or Santos) in the first pace.
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