My genealogy view approach has been to find out where I was and when (my DNA). This within the larger background study as a history generalist. I liken it to being a medical GP. If my students asked for more depth than within my broad background knowledge, then I pointed the way to a specialist dealing in depth in the subject/time period being studied. I taught the American general studies courses in American and "Western Civilization" (also referred to as European History although starting in pre-history). So my post-graduate view has been reinforced rather than changed as I already knew the general historical roadmap. I did discover new revelations unknown previously concerning specific parts played in history ... the Quaker background fleeing England as religious refugees, the slave holding, 15+ forbears documented as helping found the country (DNA being in the British colonies since the 1600s, then there were the 3 marriages to Native Americans - Shinnecock, Lenni Lenape, Cherokee). And then another hung as a Loyalist. Both Southern New Jersey and deeper Southern branches so both side personalities represented in our Civil War. Mostly small farmers, craftsmen, up to my life raised blue collar union. If nothing else I have a deep appreciation of our American roots (and a My genealogy view approach has been to find out where I was and when (my DNA). This within the larger background study as a history generalist. I liken it to being a medical GP. If my students asked for more depth than within my broad background knowledge, then I pointed the way to a specialist dealing in depth in the subject/time period being studied. I taught the American general studies courses in American and "Western Civilization" (also referred to as European History although starting in pre-history). So my post-graduate view has been reinforced rather than changed as I already knew the general historical roadmap. I did discover new revelations unknown previously concerning specific parts played in history ... the Quaker background fleeing England as religious refugees, the slave holding, 15+ forbears documented as helping found the country (DNA being in the British colonies since the 1600s, then there were the 3 marriages to Native Americans - Shinnecock, Lenni Lenape, Cherokee). And then another hung as a Loyalist. Both Southern New Jersey and deeper Southern branches so both side personalities represented in our Civil War. Mostly small farmers, craftsmen, up to my life raised blue collar union. If nothing else I have a deep appreciation of our American roots (and a growing intolerance with those few who attempt to tell me what it means to be an American), keeps my mind active in my 80th year.
