DNA testing revolutionizes genealogy research, reveals new insights into Finnish history
Genealogy research has taken a significant leap forward, moving away from relying heavily on church records and tax lists. Nowadays, data about the past is sought through paternal lineage DNA tests.
Ari Kolehmainen, a genealogist and Master of History, believes that DNA research could change the narrative of Finnish history, especially when combined with interdisciplinary studies in onomastics, archaeology, and historical research.
DNA tests have revolutionized genealogy, opening up closed doors and allowing the exploration of family secrets. Thus far, popular “cousin tests” that are based on the inheritance from both parents have been crucial in finding close relatives. The newer Y-DNA, based on the paternal lineage from father to son, helps solve earlier mysteries about family backgrounds and settlement history.
Kolehmainen reveals that the DNA test brought a surprise even for him. Centuries ago, it was revealed that his father was not who he had believed him to be, which initially was quite a shock.
Recently, Kolehmainen launched a comprehensive family investigation in the Juva region. The residents have enthusiastically joined the work, with over 200 people providing DNA samples. The aim is to gain a more accurate and broader picture of family origins and the spread of settlement.
Based on previous research, it is known that Savonian settlement spread over a wide area as it was based on slash-and-burn agriculture, requiring large areas. New information suggests that Savonian settlement is even older than previously estimated. Kolehmainen estimates that Savo has been permanently inhabited since the Iron Age, 1500 years ago. The population began to shift more towards Savonian around the year 500. Interestingly, the earlier settlement appears to be more Tavastian than Karelian.
The study of the families and settlement history of the Juva region has already spread to different parts of Southern Savonia. Ari Kolehmainen hopes that similar projects can be started in other provinces.