“In Search of Self: How A DNA Test at iGENEA Unveiled My Unexpected Viking Heritage”
Family name Clausen
Unearthed by iGENEA, my DNA confirms unexpected lineage to the Vikings, apart from the expected German roots, illuminating a richer and intriguing personal history and a newfound sense of identity.
Before my DNA test at iGENEA, my knowledge about my ancestral lineage, particularly the Clausen family, was surface-level as the details were mostly limited to verbal narratives and some fragmented historical records. The DNA test brought a profound shift in understanding my roots, revealing not only geographical origins but also giving some fascinating and rather unexpected insights into my ancestry. Notably, I discovered that my Clausens, who I had always assumed were solely of Germanic origin, had marked Viking DNA. This revelation not only amplified my scope of family history but compelled me to reevaluate my identity.
Far from the stereotypical Germanic roots I’d grown up with, my DNA results showed a significant percentage of Scandinavian genes, especially Viking. This spurred me onto a more vigorous exploration of this newfound heritage. With this reshaped self-understanding, I found myself absorbed in ancient Viking history, rituals, and culture, often making connections with my traits and cultural preferences I could now trace back to these formidable seafarers.
The DNA tests shed light on two contrasting aspects of the Clausen lineage. Firstly, the sustainability of the farmers who for generations maintained their connection to the land in the fertile valleys of Germany. At odds with this, I learned of a more audacious lineage - the adventurous Vikings known for their seafaring expeditions and extensive network of trade routes across diverse lands. This duality intrigued me, providing a new sense of identity enveloped in a rich, complex, and diverse history.
No familial anecdotes or speculations could have hinted at this enriched lineage, only a verified scientific DNA test. This experience with iGENEA has been instrumental in shifting my self-understanding, and these revelations have forged a stronger tie with a family lineage that is rooted in varied cultures, untold adventures, and a history of resilience.
Looking back, I strongly believe that taking the DNA test at iGENEA has been extremely enlightening. It has not only elevated my vocabulary of personal history but has also significantly reshaped my identity, connecting me to roots that are far-reaching, diverse, and intricate, forever changing my understanding of the notion of self and lineage.
H. Clausen