Using ChatGPT to Explore Genealogy Connections
As I delved into my family tree, I was contacted by a DNA match who used ChatGPT to gain insights into our possible relationship. This sparked a fascinating journey of discovery, and I’d like to share how I used ChatGPT to explore our genealogy connection.
Understanding the DNA Data
I had sent DNA samples to Ancestry and two other companies, hoping to uncover more about my family background. The data revealed that my cousin and I shared 1% of my DNA, indicating a third-cousin relationship. This prompted me to ask: "What does this mean?" ChatGPT provided an explanation:
- The 95 cM value indicates a second-cousin relationship or greater.
- The 10 segments of shared DNA suggest a more distant relationship.
- The longest segment of 16 cM indicates a closer relationship.
Visualizing the Relationship
I asked ChatGPT to create a diagram to help me visualize our connection. The AI responded with an image, which I found difficult to understand. I modified the prompt, asking for a diagram using a different approach. This led to a clear visual representation of our relationship, showing that our families connected through my grandparent’s grandparent.
Identifying the Ancestral Pool
I inquired about the size of the ancestral pool at the third-cousin level. ChatGPT replied that each of us has a pool of 16 great-great-grandparents, with one shared pair. This means that each of us has 15 unique great-great-grandparents.
Refining the Search
Armed with this information, I asked ChatGPT to help me narrow down the search. I provided more context, including my cousin’s description of our shared ancestor living in Russia. ChatGPT estimated the birth and death years of this ancestor, initially suggesting a range of 1847-1861 and 1870-1921. After refining its estimate, it narrowed the range to 1835-1861 and 1870-1880.
Conclusion
In this article, I’ve shown how I used ChatGPT to explore my genealogy connection with a DNA match. By asking the right questions and providing context, ChatGPT was able to provide valuable insights into our relationship, including the size of the ancestral pool and the likely birth and death years of our shared ancestor. This experience has been a fascinating journey, and I’m excited to continue exploring my family tree with the help of AI tools like ChatGPT.
FAQs
Q: What is the purpose of this article?
A: This article aims to demonstrate how to use ChatGPT to explore genealogy connections with a DNA match.
Q: What is the minimum amount of shared DNA required for a third-cousin relationship?
A: According to Ancestry, the minimum amount of shared DNA for a third-cousin relationship is 1%.
Q: Can ChatGPT be used for other genealogy purposes?
A: Yes, ChatGPT can be used to explore other aspects of genealogy, such as identifying potential ancestors, understanding family relationships, and researching historical events.
Q: How accurate is ChatGPT in its estimates?
A: The accuracy of ChatGPT’s estimates depends on the quality and quantity of the data provided, as well as the complexity of the question being asked. In this case, the estimates were refined and refined based on additional context and information.
