Discover the history of your surname

Apps to discover the history of your last name

Among the various applications and websites available, three stand out for being free and easy to use: FamilySearch, MyHeritage and Geneanet.

These platforms offer access to databases containing historical documents, civil records, censuses, and much more.

FamilySearch

FamilySearch It is a free tool created by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. This platform has an extensive database that covers millions of records from around the world, making it a very valuable resource for anyone who wants to research the history of your last name.

How to use FamilySearch?

1. Register for free on the website FamilySearch.org.
2. Once inside, start building your family tree.
3. Enter the information collected from your family members.
4. Browse record collections: You can search by name, date, and location.
5. Use the filters to refine your search and find relevant documents, such as birth, death, marriage, and census certificates.

Personally, I remember being surprised when I first started using FamilySearch to find old documents from my grandparents, which helped me better understand the history of your last name in a broader context. Sometimes, it's amazing what you can discover when exploring these archives!

MyHeritage

MyHeritage is another popular platform in the genealogy world. Although it offers premium services, it also has a free version that allows access to a wealth of important data to understand the history of your last nameThis app stands out for its intuitive interface and visual tools for building a digital family tree.

How to use MyHeritage?

1. Create an account on MyHeritage.com free of charge.
2. Start entering basic information about your ancestors.
3. Explore historical records available on the platform, such as census records, military records, and death certificates.
4. Take advantage of DNA matching features if you decide to access them in the future, as they help you find distant relatives.
5. Use visual tools to see familiar patterns and connections that can reveal interesting details about the history of your last name.

In my experience, MyHeritage helped me identify connections to relatives I didn't even know existed, opening a window into my rich family heritage.

Geneanet

Geneanet It is especially popular in Spanish and French-speaking countries. It is distinguished by having a community of active users who collaborate by sharing old documents and photographs, which enriches the search for history of your last name.

How to use Geneanet?

1. Register at Geneanet.org for free.
2. Complete your family tree profile with basic information and important details about your ancestors.
3. Search the vast collection of documents and records the platform offers.
4. Participate in forums and discussion groups where other users share tips and findings.
5. Take advantage of collaboration tools to connect with relatives and genealogy experts who can help you expand your knowledge. history of your last name.
6. iOS – Android

Personally, Geneanet helped me connect with users from other countries who had complementary records, allowing for a more comprehensive and accurate view of my family lineage.

Comparison of FamilySearch, MyHeritage and Geneanet

Now that we have detailed how to use each app to discover the history of your last name, it is interesting to compare them to understand which ones best suit your needs.

Interface and ease of use:

• FamilySearch It offers a traditional and robust interface, ideal for those looking for a large amount of historical data, although it can sometimes be a little less intuitive for beginners.
• MyHeritage It has a modern and visual interface, which makes it more friendly for new users, in addition to incorporating interactive tools to connect with the history of your last name.
• Geneanet It stands out for its active community and focus on Spanish-speaking users, facilitating communication and information exchange in the native language.

Access to records:

• FamilySearch It has a gigantic and diverse database, covering records from multiple countries and eras, allowing for complete tracking of the history of your last name.
• MyHeritage offers a large number of records, although some of its more advanced services require a paid subscription.
• Geneanet, for its part, is excellent for those looking for documentation in historical formats and specific languages, benefiting from community collaboration.

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Collaboration and community:

• FamilySearch It draws on the vast experience of many users, but its approach is more documentary than interactive.
• MyHeritage combines documentation with DNA technology, which can lead to surprising discoveries and connections with unknown relatives.
• Geneanet It stands out in the collaboration between its users, facilitating exchanges and sharing findings very actively among those who research the history of your last name.

Conclusion of the comparison:
Each of these tools has its advantages. For a researcher looking for a comprehensive and diverse experience, it's advisable to start with FamilySearch for its vast database. If you're looking for a more modern and interactive experience, MyHeritage may be the ideal option. And for those interested in harnessing the power of an active Spanish-speaking community, Geneanet is indispensable. Ultimately, combining these tools could provide a much richer and more detailed perspective on the world. history of your last name.

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