A pedigree map (also known as a pedigree chart or ancestry chart), is a diagram that shows the genealogical relationships between individuals in a family tree. It is a fundamental tool used by genetic genealogists and professional genealogists to visually represent and analyze family lineages and ancestral connections.
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A unique feature on MyHeritage takes the Pedigree Map's a step further. This is a free feature that allows you to visualize and navigate information in your family tree from a geographic perspective. The feature uses all the locations you indicated for the various ancestors in your tree and marks their location on a world map.
The origins of the term "pedigree"
The word "pedigree" comes from the Old French "pied de grue," which literally translates to "foot of a crane." This phrase refers to the typical shape of pedigree diagrams or family trees, which resemble the thin, branching footprint left by a crane in the sand.
The earliest use of the term "pedigree" in the context of genealogy can be traced back to the late 15th century. During this period, it became common practice among nobility and aristocratic families to document their lineages and ancestral histories. These records, known as pedigrees, were often displayed in the form of a branching diagram, with the oldest ancestors at the base and subsequent generations branching out like the thin, spindly foot print of a crane.
Pedigree maps or charts are used among animal breeders as well, to document ancestry and genetic background of an animal, often used to establish its breeding value or purity of breed.
Today, the term "pedigree" is widely used in both human and animal genetics, with pedigree maps or charts serving as essential tools for studying inheritance patterns, tracing the transmission of genetic traits and disorders, and understanding familial relationships over multiple generations.
Visual representation
Pedigree maps usually use standardized symbols to represent different individuals, their biological sex, and their phenotypic or genotypic characteristics.
- Males- represented by squares.
- Females- represented by circles.
- Parents- represented by a horizontal line that connects the two parents.
- Offspring- represented by vertical line stemming from the parental horizontal line and leads to the symbols for their offspring according to gender.
- Generations are usually marked by numbers - 1- the first generation, 2-children, 3-grandchildren and so on.
Genealogical advantages
Pedigree maps are useful to organize and present genealogical information, making it easier to identify gaps or inconsistencies in family records and to plan further research strategies.
Visual clarity
The diagrammatic nature of pedigree maps makes it easier to grasp complex family relationships at a glance, unlike textual descriptions or lists of names.
Standardized symbols
Pedigree maps use standardized symbols and conventions, allowing genealogists and genetic researchers to communicate complex family structures consistently in a universal language.
Identification of patterns
By visually representing family relationships, pedigree maps can help identify patterns of inheritance that may be relevant to genetic or ancestral studies.
Research planning
Pedigree maps can guide genealogists in planning their research strategies by highlighting areas where information is missing or inconsistent, helping them focus their efforts more effectively.
Examples of pedigree maps
Simple pedigree chart
A basic pedigree chart shows the relationships between an individual, their parents, grandparents, and potentially more distant ancestors, using standardized symbols for males, females, and their connections.
Genetic pedigree
In genetic studies, pedigree maps may include additional symbols or annotations to indicate individuals affected by specific genetic conditions or disorders, carriers of particular traits, or other relevant genetic information.
Family group sheet
A family group sheet is a type of pedigree map that focuses on a specific family unit, typically a married couple and their children, providing a more detailed view of that particular branch of the family tree.
Descendants chart
While pedigree maps typically trace ancestors, descendants charts show an individual's descendants. The top of the chart is a specific individual (or couple) and the chart is showing the relationships between that person (or couple), their children, grandchildren, and subsequent direct generations.
Pedigree maps are essential tools in genetic genealogy and professional genealogy, providing a comprehensive and visually appealing way to represent, analyze, and communicate complex family relationships and ancestral connections.
Learn more about Pedigree maps by MyHeritage
- What is the PedigreeMap™?- MyHeritage Help Center.
- Introducing PedigreeMap™ — an Interactive Map of Your Family History- MyHeirtage Blog
- Use PedigreeMap™ to view important locations in your peoples' lives-The Family History Guide