Trace, document, record, and write your family's history with this easy-to-read, step-by-step authoritative guide.
Finally, here is the fun, easy-to-use guide that African Americans have been waiting for since Alex Haley published Roots more than twenty-five years ago. Written by the leading African American professional genealogist in the United States who teaches and lectures widely, Black Roots highlights some of the special problems, solutions, and sources unique to African Americans. Based on solid genealogical principles and designed for those who have little or no experience researching their family's past, but valuable to any genealogist, this book explains everything you need to get started, including: where to search close to home, where to write for records, how to make the best use of libraries and the Internet, and how to organize research, analyze historical documents, and write the family history.
THIS GUIDE ALSO INCLUDES:
real case histories that illustrate the unique challenges posed to African Americans and how they were solved
more than 100 illustrations and photographs of actual documents and records you're likely to encounter when tracing your family tree
samples of all the worksheets and forms you'll need to keep your research in order
a list of the traps even experienced researchers often fall into that hamper their research
The search for family origin has been a preoccupation of African Americans for centuries, long before Alex Haley's Roots. The task has become easier in recent years, thanks to the advent of the Internet and genealogy organizations. Now add Tony Burroughs's excellent primer, Black Roots, to the list of necessary research tools. Written for the general reader, Burroughs details the best methods and research techniques for mapping family histories, and explains how to navigate the endless labyrinths of myths, stories, omissions, and official records. "Genealogy is important for kids to know their heritage, who their ancestors are and what they accomplished," he writes. "If African American youngsters learn genealogy early enough, it can make a big difference in their lives. Genealogy can not only help kids understand the world but can give them respect for their elders, bridge generation gaps, and heal family wounds."
Using case histories as examples, Burroughs outlines six phases of African American genealogy: oral histories; family research to 1870; the identification of the last slave owner; the research of the owner's background; a trip to Africa; and research in Canada and the Caribbean. Burroughs shows how to research birth, marriage, and death certificates; obituaries; social security records; and even trace histories in other countries and across racial lines. With over 100 illustrations, photographs of real documents, and sample worksheets, Burroughs has put together a comprehensive guide for prospective genealogists. "Now that you have assumed the position of family historian, remember that it comes with responsibilities," he writes. "You are entrusted with the responsibility to trace your family history thoroughly and accurately." After all, your descendents are counting on you. --Eugene Holley Jr.
Customer Reviews:
Avg. Customer Rating: 5.0 / 5.0
Well-written Resource:
When someone comes to me with a difficult research line and is stumped, I recommend that they take the time to read Tony's book. It is well-written and serves as an excellent resource for ALL genealogists, Black or otherwise!
A Must-Have for African-American Researchers:
Tony Burroughs provides myriad of valuable information that all African-American genealogists need. Beginners and experienced researchers alike can benefit from this informative read.
Awesome!:
Tony Burroughs shares an exilirating experience of his journey regarding genealology research and findings. This book will lead you to greater heights! I found the book to be one of the most valuable pieces of information regarding my genealogy research. It lead me to find my family in Washington, Louisiana back to 4 generations. It was the most rewarding project that I ever encountered! What an awesome journey!
The Best Black Genealogical Book Written:
This is the best source for black genealogy that I have read. It was an easy read and hard to put down. Mr Burroughs gave good explanations and used interesting examples. When he introduced a new concept, he explained it thoroughly and gave an example of why or why not to do whatever he was explaining. I learned a lot of good habits from this book, especially about documenting sources. If you are planning to become a professional genealogist, this book is a good beginning and an excellent reference for your... more info
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