Venturing into My Ancestry: Surprising Turns of the Franks’ Lineage Unveiled Through the iGENEA DNA Test
Family name Franks
Submitting my DNA to iGENEA for genetic testing was akin to opening Pandora’s box. The simple process sending in the saliva sample led to an illuminating, profound journey into my ancestry. The results screamed surprises—my surname Franks, initially assumed to be of European origin, unveiled an unexpected Middle Eastern heritage, coursed through nomadic groups, and further traced back to Neolithic farmers. This remarkable journey is both an exploration of personal identity and a testament to human evolution.
I must admit, I was intrigued yet skeptical when I first ordered my DNA test kit from iGENEA. After weeks of anticipation, I finally had it in my hands; a gateway to my ancestral past all wrapped up in a tiny box. I was full of suspense. What would this test reveal about my surname Franks, so cautiously preserved throughout the centuries?
When the results bounded back to my inbox later, the whirl of information was set to reweave my understanding of my heritage. I knew Franks was inextricably bound to Western Europe, particularly Germany and France. And yet, there was a shocking twist. The findings pointed toward a distinct Middle Eastern lineage. Particularly, the prominence started in the area of modern Iraq, moving over time towards Turkey, then finally settling in Western Europe. It wasn’t Germany or France where the Franks name began; it drummed its first beats in the heart of Mesopotamia.
What was more surprising was how my genetic trail exhibited a mix of nomadic groups, including Ashkenazi Jews. Several historic documents suggested that Ashkenaz also resided in Western Europe, likely Germany. Incredibly, this Jewish lineage traced back further than I could imagine.
Moreover, the test revealed 20% of my DNA originating from the Neolithic farmers that came with the onset of agriculture in Europe. The information was a jigsaw slotting perfectly into my puzzle. It makes sense how the farmers' genes were passed on within my lineage, likely causing my ancestors to migrate from the Middle East to Europe.
The biggest revelation was validating the historical events which caused such migrations. Integrating this with my lineage felt surreal; my ancestors were active parts in shaping the history of humanity.
In the end, I have realized it’s not just about tracing the lineage—it's about the fluidity of human evolution and the movement across continents. Regardless of the surprises, I am glad to have such an elaborate timeline etched into my genes. Who knew my surname Franks would be linked to such a rich, gentle tapestry of human history and migration?
A. Franks