DNA (or deoxyribonucleic acid) is inherited from both, paternal and maternal sides of the family. Y chromosome DNA is only passed from father to son. It is not present in females as the Y chromosome is what makes males male. Mothers pass their X chromosome to both their sons and daughters but that can only be used to follow the female line, which in turn makes it less useful useful in following families linked by surname.

This site is interested in trying to connect the various WRIGHT families of East Anglia to see which, and how many are related. They will fall into many subclades are divisions of haplogroups. Haplogroups are the various designations that characterise genetic differences that humankind has acquired since first originating in Africa (it is believed) before spreading across the globe. As these populations expanded and moved, genetic differences began to establish themselves, and though not everything is clear, it has been possible to establish the likely origins of many of the haplogroups. now found. Essentially though, this explains why Y-DNA is the important factor in determining relationships between family surname groups and hence this website being based on surname.

DNA is measured in STRs (Short Tandem Repeat) or SNPs (single nucleotide-polymorphism) which track mutations, which is how relatedness can be measured. The fewer the differences between people sharing these mutations, the closer their relatedness. STRs are able to measure the relatedness within the genealogical timeframe (approximately since the beginning of parish registers). SNPs measure a connection deeper in the past and are used for determining the exact haplogroup someone is from.

There is also autosomal DNA.This is inherited from all ancestors but that from any particular ancestor diminishes as it is passed down through the generations. It is useful for trying to find cousins of either sex who may share DNA but is generally only useful to a distance of about 5 to 6 generations, as the earlier ancestors have had their DNA too diluted (by around 50%) with each succeeding generation. It may prove to be useful in establishing relationships between some WRIGHT families but it is outside the scope of this site. Autosomal testing can be done by people of either sex.

As this is a complex subject (and I am by no means an expert!) rather than detail more beyond this I have put links to sites that can explain more about this topic, in general and in particular.

Finally, as fixed surnames arose only relatively recently, the WRIGHTs of East Anglia will come from many haplogroups and subcladesand so not all will be related to others except several thousand years back. It is hoped to demonstrate though, that many are related.

If you are interested in finding out more about how to undertake testing or discuss it in general, please get in touch via the "Contact Us" link on the home page.

TESTING PROCEDURE