The Most Famous Genealogist, Ranked

Choose the genealogist you think is the most famous!

Author: Gregor Krambs
Updated on May 4, 2024 07:06
In the intricate world of genealogy, the voices and perspectives of leading genealogists shape how we understand our past. These experts not only help us trace family lineages but also contextualize historical events and social movements through our ancestors' stories. Highlighting the most acclaimed individuals in this field reflects their impact and guides novices on whom to follow for insightful research. By ranking these genealogists based on public opinion, we tap into collective wisdom and celebrate their contributions to our understanding of history. This dynamic list provides a snapshot of who is currently making waves in the genealogy community. Voting enables you to contribute to this ever-changing landscape, ensuring that the list remains fresh and relevant.

Who Is the Most Famous Genealogist?

  1. 1
    46
    votes
    Gates is an American literary critic, scholar, historian, and filmmaker. He is the Alphonse Fletcher University Professor and Director of the Hutchins Center for African and African American Research at Harvard University. He is also the host of the PBS television series Finding Your Roots, in which he traces the ancestry of celebrities through genealogy and genetics.
  2. 2
    44
    votes
    Brian Boru was an Irish king who ruled from 1002 to 1014. He is known for his victory over the Vikings at the Battle of Clontarf in 1014, which is often considered a turning point in Irish history. His genealogy has been extensively researched and documented, making him one of the most famous figures in Irish genealogy.
    Brian Boru in other rankings
  3. 3
    26
    votes
    Grenham is an Irish genealogist and author, best known for his work on Irish family history. He has written several books on the subject, including Tracing Your Irish Ancestors and Clans and Families of Ireland. He is also a regular contributor to genealogical magazines and websites, and has appeared on television and radio programs to discuss Irish genealogy.
  4. 4
    21
    votes
    Anderson is an American genealogist and author, best known for his work on early New England genealogy. He has written several books on the subject, including The Great Migration Begins: Immigrants to New England, 1620-1633, which is considered a seminal work in the field. He is also the director of the Great Migration Study Project, which seeks to document the lives of immigrants to New England in the 17th century.
  5. 5
    19
    votes
    Dobson is a Scottish genealogist and author, best known for his work on Scottish family history. He has written several books on the subject, including Scottish Emigration to North America, 1603-1865, which documents the lives of Scottish immigrants to North America. He is also a regular contributor to genealogical magazines and websites, and has appeared on television and radio programs to discuss Scottish genealogy.
  6. 6
    13
    votes
    Smolenyak is an American genealogist and author, best known for her work on American family history. She has written several books on the subject, including Who Do You Think You Are? The Essential Guide to Tracing Your Family History, which is based on the television series of the same name. She is also a regular contributor to genealogical magazines and websites, and has appeared on television and radio programs to discuss American genealogy.
  7. 7
    10
    votes
    Redmonds was an English genealogist and author, best known for his work on English family history. He has written several books on the subject, including Names and History: People, Places and Things, which explores the origins of English surnames. He is also a regular contributor to genealogical magazines and websites, and has appeared on television and radio programs to discuss English genealogy.
  8. 8
    7
    votes
    Robinson is an English actor, presenter, and author, best known for his work on the television series Time Team. He has also presented several programs on genealogy, including The Real Da Vinci Code and The Worst Jobs in History. He is known for his entertaining and accessible approach to history and genealogy, and has inspired many people to explore their own family histories.
  9. 9
    6
    votes
    Nick Barratt
    Nickbarratt · CC BY 3.0
    Barratt is an English historian, genealogist, and author, best known for his work on British family history. He has written several books on the subject, including The Family Detective: Tracing Your Ancestors in England and Wales, which is a comprehensive guide to genealogical research in those countries. He is also a regular contributor to genealogical magazines and websites, and has appeared on television and radio programs to discuss British genealogy.
  10. 10
    10
    votes
    Paton is a Scottish genealogist and author, best known for his work on Scottish family history. He has written several books on the subject, including Tracing Your Scottish Ancestry Through Church and State Records, which is a guide to genealogical research in Scotland. He is also a regular contributor to genealogical magazines and websites, and has appeared on television and radio programs to discuss Scottish genealogy.

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Ranking factors for famous genealogist

  1. Contributions to the field
    The impact that the genealogist has had on the field and the extent to which their work has influenced others.
  2. Publications and research
    The number and quality of publications and research that the genealogist has produced, as well as the level of recognition they have received for this work.
  3. Professional affiliations and recognition
    The genealogist's membership and involvement in professional organizations, as well as any awards or recognition they have received from these groups.
  4. Teaching and education
    The extent to which the genealogist has contributed to the education and training of others in the field, through workshops, lectures, or other forms of instruction.
  5. Public outreach and engagement
    The genealogist's involvement in public outreach and engagement activities, such as speaking engagements or media appearances that promote the value of genealogy research.
  6. Innovation and creativity
    The degree to which the genealogist has developed new and innovative approaches to genealogy research, analysis, or presentation.
  7. Impact on society
    The extent to which the genealogist's work has had an impact on society, such as helping individuals connect with lost family members or uncovering previously unknown family histories.

About this ranking

This is a community-based ranking of the most famous genealogist. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or Genealogist is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!

Statistics

  • 2598 views
  • 201 votes
  • 10 ranked items

Voting Rules

A participant may cast an up or down vote for each Genealogist once every 24 hours. The rank of each Genealogist is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.

More information on most famous genealogist

Genealogy, the study of family history and lineage, has become increasingly popular in recent years. With the rise of DNA testing and online resources, more and more people are delving into their family histories to discover their roots. As a result, the field of genealogy has grown and evolved, with numerous experts and enthusiasts contributing to the study. When it comes to the most famous genealogist, there are several individuals who come to mind. Some of the most well-known names in the field include Henry Louis Gates Jr., Megan Smolenyak, and John Grenham. These experts have made significant contributions to genealogy research, whether through their own personal research or through their work in academia or the media. Henry Louis Gates Jr. is perhaps the most recognizable name in the field of genealogy. As the host of the PBS series "Finding Your Roots," Gates has helped countless individuals discover their family histories and has shed light on the importance of genealogy research. Megan Smolenyak, a renowned genealogist and author, has also made significant contributions to the field. Her work includes helping to identify the remains of soldiers from World War II and uncovering the true identity of Annie Moore, the first immigrant to arrive at Ellis Island. John Grenham, an Irish genealogist and author, is another notable figure in the field. Grenham has authored several books on Irish genealogy and has worked as a professional genealogist for over 30 years. His expertise has been instrumental in helping individuals trace their Irish ancestry. Overall, the field of

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