The DNA profile of Nathan Bedford Forrest
Are you related to one of the first leaders of the Ku Klux Klan?
Discover a possible family connection with one of the first leaders of the Ku Klux Klan and also compare yourself with many other famous people!
The DNA of a plantation owner
Nathan Bedford Forrest (1821-1877) is one of the most controversial figures in American history. In the United States, he is particularly known as a Confederate general during the American Civil War and as the first Grand Dragon leader of the Ku Klux Klan. His life and actions have often been the subject of heated debate and criticism.
Forrest was born the son of poor frontiersmen in Bedford County, Tennessee. Through intense work and business acumen, however, he managed to build an enormous fortune. In his native land, Forrest was a slave trader and plantation owner before the war, meeting the increased demand for labor in the ever-expanding cotton fields of the Deep South. He exemplifies the so-called "self-made man" and, for some, embodies the American dream.
When the Civil War broke out, Forrest, like many other Southerners, joined the Confederate Army. Although he had no formal military training, his intuitive expertise in combat tactics and strategies enabled him to achieve extraordinary military success. However, he subsequently came under fire for alleged war crimes, particularly in connection with the 1864 Fort Pillow massacre.
After the Civil War, Forrest also played a significant role in establishing the Ku Klux Klan. As the first "Imperial Wizard," he was instrumental in shaping the direction and activities of this racist group. This role and his involvement in the KKK's racist attacks make him a controversial figure to this day.
As for his genealogical knowledge, Forrest was probably unaware of his genetic ancestry or haplogroup during his lifetime. Modern genetic studies, however, may provide important clues to his origins and possible relationships. Forrest's male genetic marker may belong to haplogroup R1b, which is most prevalent in western Europe, particularly in the areas of what are now Ireland, Scotland, Wales, and England. This suggests that his ancestors probably originated from these areas, which may lead to insights into his ethnic origin and ancestry.
Forrest's historical and social influence is a reflection of the conflicting aspects of American history. He is both a highly regarded and a highly criticized figure, depending on social and historical interpretation. His wealth and military success are overshadowed by his involvement in the slave trade and his involvement with an organization that advocated racial violence.
Finally, knowledge of his haplogroup makes an important contribution to understanding Forrest's genetic and genealogical roots. It helps to unravel his family origins and potentially provides deeper insights into his life story and identity. Despite all the controversy, the figure of Nathan Bedford Forrest is part of America's historical heritage. His story is intertwined with the history of the American Civil War, the rise of racism, and the evolution of American society as a whole.
Nathan Bedford Forrest belonged to haplogroup R-M343 (subgroup R-FGC51332) in the paternal line.
Unraveling Links to History: My iGENEA DNA Test Leads to Nathan Bedford Forrest
My journey with iGENEA enticingly painted my ancestral lineage and revealed my surprising connection to a consuming figure in American history, Nathan Bedford Forrest. The entire experience – from the simple DNA collection process to the enriching results – was marked by professionalism and an intense passion for genetic exploration. (V. Lynan)
My journey with iGENEA has been one of unparalleled revelation, punctuated by moments of curiosity, intrigue, and enlightenment. The process started with a simple, user-friendly kit that included clear instructions for saliva collection and return shipping. The collection process was quick and painless, and the kit was promptly shipped back to iGENEA's laboratories. The timeframe presented to me was a wait of 6-8 weeks for processing, which I found reasonable given the in-depth analysis they were to conduct.
Throughout the wait period, the company kept me promptly informed about the progress of my test and addressed any concerns or questions I had with the utmost professionalism and empathy. This level of responsiveness and customer-centrism served to further affirm my decision to entrust them with this personal endeavor.
When the results arrived, they were presented in an easy-to-understand digital format and coupled with an in-depth, personalized report that painted a comprehensive picture of my ancestries. To my surprise, I discovered a link to Nathan Bedford Forrest, a notable figure in American history. Finding out that I share a common ancestry with such a historically significant person was astounding. This information added a new layer of depth to my understanding of my past, making me feel more connected to history.
Further inquiry to flesh out this link was met with an encouraging and helpful response from iGENEA. They provided additional resources, as well as guidance on how to trace my lineage back further or delve deeper into this newfound link. Their continued support and assistance have made this journey even more rewarding.
Overall, my experience with iGENEA has proven to be one enriched with discovery powered by professionalism, customer-centricity, and a clear passion for genetic exploration. It has been a journey that has reshaped my understanding of my own roots and ignited an even more profound interest in genealogy.
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Questions and answers about the DNA test
How long does a DNA origin analysis take?
After we have received the samples it normally takes 6 weeks for the fist results. Depending on the chosen test the result is thus already fully ready or further analysis are done.
How can I order a DNA origin analysis for someone else?
If you order and pay for a test set for somebody else online, the address of the other person under “Comments”. We will then send the collection kit to the address of this person. You can also place your order by phone or e-mail.
This is how the DNA origin analysis works
A Mucus Sample suffices to get a sample of your DNA. Taking the sample is simple and painless and can be done at home. Send the samples with the envelop included in the sampling kit.
at home, simple and painless
with the enclosed envelope
online after approx. 6-8 weeks