Genetic Genealogy
Ancient human migration is a subject that fascinates me. Traditionally, scientists relied on archeology and anthropology to determine migration patterns. In the last few decades, advances in DNA sequencing technology paved the way for genetic genealogy studies, which are now publicly accessible to genealogy enthusiasts. These research tools were once restricted to ancient human remains with archeological value.
My experience started in 2018 with the GenoGraphic Project (Geno 2.0). When that project was over, I transferred my data to FamilyTreeDNA where I was able to get additional tests done, mainly their Big-Y 700. In the process, I learned (I am still learning) about my ancestor’s ancient migration patterns. Shown below, are two maps that describe estimated migratory paths from prehistoric to more “recent” times. These maps take into consideration the most recent data and are regularly updated. However, their inherent limitation is the database they use. Over time, as more testers join research projects, the results will continually improve. The following paragraphs briefly cover my matrilineal and patrilineal lineages.
Matrilineal ancestry describes a lineage of women from my maternal side of the family. As a descendant of these women, I share with them my mitochondrial DNA. This DNA is passed from mothers to their children. My mtDNA haplogroup is H-T152C! a descendant of haplogroup H. For more details see the mtDNA Haplotree.
Patrilineal ancestry traces the lineage of men on my paternal side. I share with these men DNA sequences on my Y chromosome. This DNA is passed from father to son. My Y-DNA haplogroup is E-FTE22848. For more context, start by checking its Y-DNA Time Tree, then the Y-DNA Haplotree. As of 2025, we are only two men (unrelated within modern timelines) to be assigned to this group, and like many others, it looks like it has some interesting history.
Images are from Tracking Back website http://scaledinnovation.com/ by Rob Spencer, specifically their SNP Tracker tool.
I am interested in connecting with like-minded people. I am by no means an expert, and apart from biology, most of what I know comes from exchanges with experts and other testers. If you would like to share notes or have any comments, please get in touch, I am excited to see where this goes.
Family Tree
Additionally, I am working on my family tree, 520 individuals and growing (no longer available online). Feel free to send me a message if you think we are related. If you suspect that we share a common male ancestor from my paternal side (Nader family), please let me know. My “Big-Y 700” results will come in handy in that case. I also have genetic genealogy information from my maternal side (Aoun family), please reach out if you have any questions. I am always happy to share notes.
Databases I have used:
National Geographic’s Genographic Project, FamilyTreeDNA, 23andme, Living DNA and MyHeritage. (the last one being a raw data re-upload, no longer active)
Oldest known ancestors:
Chahin Abi Nader, my 5th great-grandfather on my paternal side through my grandmother. There are 7 generations between us. And Mansour Khalaf, my 4th great-grandfather on my maternal side. He is the grandfather of the grandfather of my grandfather.
Most common family names on my tree, in alphabetical order. Are you related to any of them?
Abi Nader, Abi Rached, Aoun, Assy, Bassoul, Bitar, Boustany, Canaan, Chalhoub, Chami, Charabiyeh, Chediac, Ghaleb, Haber, Haddad, Hamouch, Jabbour, Kanaan, Khalaf, Khawand, Madi, Mbarak, Nader, Nasr, Osta, Rouhana, Sfeir.