Discover how DNA testing can transform your family history research! This foundational lecture introduces the core principles of genetic genealogy, explaining the types of DNA tests available (autosomal, Y-DNA, and mitochondrial), what they can reveal, and how they complement traditional genealogical methods. Learn how genetic insights can connect you to your ancestors and provide new avenues to explore your family’s story.
In this engaging kickoff to the Foundations in DNA webinar series, renowned genealogist Blaine Bettinger introduces the fundamentals of DNA and its transformative role in genealogical research. Designed for both beginners and seasoned researchers, this session lays the groundwork for understanding mitochondrial DNA, Y-DNA, and autosomal DNA, while emphasizing their applications in solving family mysteries, confirming lineages, and breaking down long-standing brick walls. With more than two decades of experience in genetic genealogy, Bettinger brings both scientific expertise and practical strategies to help genealogists confidently integrate DNA evidence into their research.
DNA as a genealogical record: DNA is not separate from traditional sources like census or land records—it is another record type, gifted by ancestors and passed down through generations. Its ability to confirm, correct, or expand upon existing family records makes it indispensable.
Types of DNA and their uses: Each form of DNA has a distinct inheritance pattern and application. Mitochondrial DNA traces the maternal line, Y-DNA follows the paternal line, and autosomal DNA connects with a broader range of relatives. Understanding these differences allows genealogists to choose the right test for the right research question.
Opportunities and cautions: DNA can confirm long-researched lineages and reveal surprising discoveries, from ancestral origins to previously unknown relatives. However, Bettinger stresses the need for preparedness—results may uncover sensitive family secrets, and genetic evidence must always be combined with traditional documentation.
This introductory session offers just a glimpse into the depth of knowledge covered in the full five-part series. To truly grasp the power of DNA for your family history research, explore the complete webinar and accompanying syllabus. With its detailed explanations, case studies, and practical guidance, the series equips genealogists with the tools needed to confidently apply genetic evidence in their work.
Ready to expand your skills? View the full webinar and continue through the series to gain a deeper understanding of mitochondrial DNA, Y-DNA, autosomal testing, shared matches, and ethnicity estimates. Don’t miss the opportunity to consult the additional resources in the syllabus, where you’ll find curated materials to support and enrich your genealogical journey.
Facebook
X
Syllabus
He explains everything in a simple manner. Thank you so much!
I love that he called DNA a gift from our Ancestors. Indeed, as someone who used atDNA and YDNA to find a set of my 3x great grandparents. I learned when testing that my dad’s father was not his bio father. This led me to discover that dad’s great grandfather never knew who his parents were. And Y DNA showed he had a different surname. I was able to reconnect the chain using DNA.
Great information. I had already read Blaine Bettinger’s book, Guide to DNA Testing and Genetic Genealogy. The webinar helped me gain a better understanding of what information each type of DNA testing will provide. Especially the explanation of the genetic distance markers.
As a beginner genealogist I’m so thankful for this updated series and will sure come in use with my DNA analysis of autosomal matches of my ancestral lines.
excelent
The presenter had an invaluable power point and was clear in his explanations. I’m sure that questions on Mt DNA and Y DNA will be answered before the end of this series. I would love a new series showing step-by-step how he found his missing second great-grandmother using Autosomal DNA. Lots of the DNA detective tv shows skip too many steps on their discoveries.
Looking forward to next lesson!!
He gave me a good foundation to understand the basics of DNA. I expect to be able to use this knowledge to improve my understanding as we go through the remaining four courses.