Scribe AI, which we recently introduced at RootsTech, is a powerful feature that transcribes, translates, and interprets historical documents and images. Originally born from a MyHeritage hackathon project, it quickly became a big hit in the genealogy world and has received enthusiastic feedback.

If you don’t have the MyHeritage mobile app yet, you can install it now for free. If you already have the app, make sure you update it to the latest version.

What Scribe AI can do

Scribe AI helps you make sense of historical documents and photos that might otherwise be difficult to read or interpret. It can transcribe handwritten and printed text, translate records written in other languages, and analyze visual details to provide historical context and meaningful insights.

For documents, Scribe AI extracts key genealogical details such as names, dates, and places, and can even analyze multi-page records as a single contextual unit. For photos, it estimates when and where they were taken based on visual clues. It can also interpret symbols on gravestones and explain the design and meaning of coats of arms.

By turning hard-to-read or unfamiliar materials into clear, structured information, Scribe AI helps you uncover new details and better understand your family’s history.

Accessing Scribe AI on the Mobile App

There are two ways to access Scribe AI on the mobile app:

From the app menu

On the home screen, shown below on the left, open the app menu by tapping the grid icon (highlighted in green). Tap “Photos” in the app menu shown on the right, and then “Scribe AI” (highlighted in red):

Accessing Scribe AI from the MyHeritage mobile app menu (click to zoom)

On the next screen, tap “Choose image”:

Scribe AI on the MyHeritage mobile app (click to zoom)

Then select the image you’d like to analyze from among your photos on MyHeritage or the gallery on your device.

From your MyHeritage photo gallery

To use Scribe AI on a photo or document you’ve already uploaded to MyHeritage, open the photo on the MyHeritage mobile app, tap the 3 dots on the upper right corner of the screen (highlighted below in green), and then “Get Scribe AI insights” (highlighted below in red):

Accessing Scribe AI from a photo on MyHeritage (click to zoom)

Once you run Scribe AI, the results appear in clearly organized sections, just like on the website version. The first section will be open by default. Scroll down to view the rest of your results.

Scribe AI on the MyHeritage mobile app: Historical context

Tapping on the title of each section expands and collapses it for easier navigation.

Scribe AI results: All sections collapsed (click to zoom)

Once generated, your Scribe AI results will be saved and you can access them at any time. If Scribe AI has analyzed a photo, a “Scribe AI: View insights” button will appear on the lower left corner of the photo viewing screen. Tap it to access the results.

Accessing Scribe AI results for a photo (click to zoom)

Soon, you’ll be able to use Scribe Scribe AI directly on historical records in the app. This functionality is currently available on the MyHeritage website.

Cost

Anyone can use Scribe AI for free on a limited number of images. Further use requires a Complete or Omni subscription. Existing Complete and Omni subscribers of MyHeritage are in luck, as they can use this feature without limits and at no extra cost.

Try Scribe AI on the MyHeritage mobile app

With Scribe AI now available on the MyHeritage mobile app, discovering your family’s stories just got more convenient. Whether you’re flipping through old albums at a relative’s home, encountering a fascinating headstone at a cemetery, or studying a document in an archive, you can now capture it and understand it instantly — right from your phone.

Update your MyHeritage app and start exploring with Scribe AI today.

Install the MyHeritage mobile app

The post Scribe AI Now Available on the MyHeritage Mobile App appeared first on MyHeritage Blog.

Since its launch in early 2025, we’ve received encouraging feedback from users who have written and preserved their stories. You can read more in our original announcement post and our first collection of user stories.

We’ve continued to receive heartfelt feedback from users around the world, and we’re sharing a few more of those experiences here.

Steve Dewey

Steve Dewey from Utah, U.S., used MyStories to preserve his parents’ life stories and ordered 9 copies to share with his family.

Over 50 years ago, as newlyweds, my wife and I recorded hours of personal life stories as told to us by my parents. Sadly, both have since passed away. But, thanks to MyStories, those memories of my parents are now preserved in book form for our entire family to enjoy for generations to come.

The process of creating their book of stories in an illustrated chapter form was easy and enjoyable. I appreciated the flexibility of writing our own chapter titles instead of using your suggested questions. And I also loved being able to submit more than one chapter per week.

The ability to add photos and illustrations was very important, making the book much more interesting and personal to our children and grandchildren. I am very impressed with the quality of the book overall. It’s definitely meant to last for a lifetime and more.

Our married children have started reading the book to their own families, and they all love it. They’ve found it to be a great family bonding activity at bedtime, mealtimes, or on long road trips.

Thank you for making this family heirloom possible. We’re already planning the next one.

Jac van Gerwen

Jac van Gerwen from the Netherlands wrote his life story with MyStories and ordered 3 copies to share with his family.

My wife suggested I write my life story using MyStories.

With the help of your hints for the chapters I started the walk through that memory lane. It was really a fine and relaxing process to go back to my youth.

To sit back and remember the way you grew up with your brothers, sister, friends and your parents was a time that one forgets the day to day situations.

When writing the story you get the message loud and clear that one is a very lucky and happy man.

So I thank my wife and MyStories that I have got the opportunity to memorize one’s life again and again and that all of this is captured in a very professional and beautiful printed book.

Ingrid Verkaaik

Ingrid Verkaaik, a longtime MyHeritage user from New Zealand, created a MyStories book and ordered 7 copies to share with her family.

I am pleased to have received MyStories books and have passed some of them on to family.

My younger sister was absolutely thrilled with it and said she will keep it for members of her family to read. It is a historical book (looking back on childhood) and it helps in understanding my position on circumstances we all went through, but maybe saw things differently.

The questions certainly gave me the incentive to think about things and enabled me to write the book as an autobiographical work.

I enjoyed the way the photos in the book were arranged and the general outlay of the writing supported by photos that MyHeritage arranged.

I was thrilled to do it and really got into completing the task before time. My brothers thought that it was great and really nice to have. We are separated geographically and it’s always great to look back on things that were.

Rose McArthur

Rose McArthur from Great Britain created a MyStories book to preserve her life story for future generations.

The whole concept of MyStories is a wonderful one which offers so many different choices and opportunities, no matter one’s circumstances.

I write this as an 80-year-old lady and avid genealogist. Yes, I have a lifetime of stories to tell, but what inspired me in the first place was the fact that I would literally feel I was in Aladdin’s cave if my grandmother, great-grandmother, or indeed any of my ancestors had left a book talking about their life.

Writing my story, inspired initially by the suggested topics, has been fun. It has taken me down memory lane, evoked wonderful memories of my families, helped me to revisit my youth and reminded me that, although we all have our tough times, it is the happiest memories which come flooding back first.

Perhaps, equally as important, it will give my children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren etc. an opportunity to learn more about their ancestral roots should any of them be curious and want to know more. MyStories is my tribute to the fact that, right now, we are the ancestors of the future.

Initially, having the prompts is what enables one to kickstart the process; it can be written in an ad hoc manner, or systematically. Being a butterfly by nature, my method was very ad hoc! There is the option of working on the weekly-submitted suggestions, or one can initiate topics of one’s own choice. I did both.

The whole project was most rewarding and left me with a really pleasing sense of accomplishment.

I would highly recommend MyStories to anyone who would like to leave a bit of themselves to their families and descendants, or simply just to tell their interesting personal story. The final product is absolutely first-class quality.

The whole experience has been most enjoyable, to the extent that I have even thought it would be good to do another one!

William Decker

William Decker from the U.S. created a MyStories book after years of wanting to write his life story.

I have long thought of writing about my life and had collected notes and ideas, but I never quite knew how to get started or how to structure what I wanted to say.

MyStories provided both structure and motivation — the weekly questions helped me by providing specific topics about which I could write and made it easy for me to “keep up” with the project.

My children love the “finished product” as the book was very nicely bound and of good quality.

Ed Goldberg

Ed Goldberg from Canada created a MyStories book and captured his life story over the course of a year.

Working with MyStories to create a book of my life stories was an incredibly rewarding experience. Each week, they provided thoughtful chapter suggestions that helped guide me through the process, while still giving me the flexibility to adjust or create my own chapters based on what mattered most to me.

The online platform made it easy to write at my own pace, and over the course of a year I was able to carefully build, edit, and refine my story. I also appreciated being able to add personal photos, which made the final product even more meaningful.

When I received the finished hardcover book, I was genuinely proud — it’s beautifully made and something I will treasure. Having a digital PDF version as well is a great bonus.

My only regret is not ordering more printed copies to share with family, because it truly turned out better than I imagined. I would highly recommend MyStories to anyone looking to preserve their memories in a lasting and personal way.

Looking ahead

Taking the time to write your stories creates something meaningful — for you and for the families who will read them. If you’ve been thinking about writing your stories, or creating a meaningful gift for someone close to you, this is a good time to start.

Start telling your stories — or help someone you love tell theirs with MyStories.

In honor of Mother’s Day, use promo code MOTHER25 at checkout to get 25% off MyStories books.

The post Users Are Loving MyStories: More Stories from Our Community appeared first on MyHeritage Blog.

To mark the occasion, MyHeritage is offering free access to all historical records from Australia and New Zealand from April 21–26, 2026.

Search Australian and New Zealand Records for free

Explore billions of records from Oceania

For a limited time, you can search and view 351 collections with a total of 2,375,390,660 records from Oceania for free.

These collections continue to grow over time, offering more opportunities to learn about individuals and families from the region.

They include a wide range of records that can help build a clearer picture of the past — from official documents to newspaper records and other historical sources. Together, they provide insight not only into military service, but also into everyday life across different time periods.

Learn more about your family’s story

Anzac Day is often associated with military history, but it is also an opportunity to explore the broader stories of families — where they lived, how they moved, and how their lives unfolded over time.

These records can help uncover connections, confirm details, and add context to family stories that may have been passed down through generations.

How to access the records

The collections are free to search and view from April 21 through April 26, 2026. While a subscription is usually required to view these records, during this period they are open to everyone. If you’re new to MyHeritage, you’ll need to register for a free MyHeritage account to access them.

This Anzac Day, take a moment to explore the people and stories that are part of your family history. Start searching today at myheritage.com.

The post Enjoy Free Access to Australian and New Zealand Records for Anzac Day appeared first on MyHeritage Blog.

He was named after Mario Segale, the son of Italian immigrants and a real estate developer whose brief encounter with Nintendo in 1981 became part of gaming legend. Following renewed global interest sparked by the success of the recent Super Mario film, the MyHeritage Research team set out to uncover the real history behind the name — tracing the Segale family’s journey from a small village near Genoa to the United States, and exploring the heritage, resilience, and ambition that shaped the man behind one of the most iconic names in popular culture.

The story goes that in 1981, Mario Segale, then a landlord to the struggling Nintendo of America in Tukwila, Washington, visited their office to demand overdue rent. The development team, including Shigeru Miyamoto, was so struck by their landlord’s unique personality and appearance that they decided to rename their character “Jumpman” to Mario in his honor. When our team explored Mario’s family background, we uncovered the story of a family rooted in craftsmanship and perseverance — values that, perhaps not coincidentally, mirror the spirit of the character who would one day bear his name.

A new beginning in the hills of Liguria

Long before the name “Mario” became known around the world, the Segale family was building a life in the rugged hills of northern Italy.

Their story begins in Favale di Malvaro, a small commune near Genoa, where Mario Segale’s grandparents, Angelo Segale and Pasqualina Ravegno, lived in the late 19th century. Like many families in the region, they relied on skilled manual labor to make a living.

Records show a telling evolution in Angelo’s professional life. In 1882, he was documented as a carpenter (falegname), mastering the precision of woodwork. By the time his son Luigi — Mario’s father — was born in 1886, Angelo had transitioned into the role of a bricklayer (muratore), which reflects an ability to adapt to evolving construction demands.

In the quiet hours of June 16, 1886, the family welcomed Luigi Maria Segale, Mario’s father, at their home in the hamlet of Monteghirfo. Born into a world of manual labor and traditional values, Luigi was raised in a household where his father, Angelo, was already establishing the family as respected builders in the community.

The young Luigi would grow up watching his father work with stone and mortar. This upbringing in the hard-working Italian countryside provided the blueprint for the Segale work ethic: a blend of old-world craftsmanship and the drive to construct a lasting legacy.

Luigi’s birth is preserved in an official Italian civil registration record from June 1886, shown below.

Italian civil registration birth act (Atto di Nascita) from Favale di Malvaro, dated June 20, 1886, recording the birth of Luigi Segale

The handwritten document records Luigi’s birth in the hamlet of Monteghirfo and identifies his father, Angelo, as a bricklayer. One particularly interesting note appears in the margin: because of the distance between the family home and the town hall, Angelo was exempted from presenting the newborn in person. He verified the birth through other means not detailed in the document.

Crossing the Atlantic

On April 8, 1909, Mario’s father, Luigi Segale, arrived at Ellis Island aboard the S.S. Prinzess Irene. A 23-year-old farmer from the hills of Genoa with just $40 in his pocket, Luigi’s arrival marked the start of a journey that would transform a family of Italian laborers into American real estate titans. He traveled alongside his brother, Giuseppe, both part of the great wave of Italian immigration seeking opportunity in the Pacific Northwest.

The ship’s manifest reveals that despite his humble background, Luigi was literate — a crucial advantage for navigating a new country. Described as 5′ 1″ with dark hair and grey eyes, he carried the equivalent of around $1,300 in today’s dollars, with his passage funded by his father back in Italy. Unlike many who stayed in New York’s Little Italy, the Segale brothers headed straight for Washington State to join a cousin. This “chain migration” provided the support network necessary for the family to establish the roots that eventually produced a global cultural icon.

The 1909 manifest of the S.S. Prinzess Irene captures the arrival of Luigi Segale, the father of Mario Segale, at the Port of New York.

Building a life in Washington State

Between the 1920s and 1930s, Luigi Segale, who by then went by the Americanized name Louis, evolved from a young immigrant into a veteran of the Great War and a successful independent businessman. This formative period saw him establish deep roots in the fertile valley south of Seattle, in an area known today as Tukwila and South Park (historically recorded as the Duwamish precinct).

His integration into American life was solidified by his military service. U.S. records confirm that Louis served in the Armed Forces during World War I, enlisting in April 1918 and receiving an honorable discharge a year later. Upon returning to civilian life in 1921, he resided in the port city of Tacoma, working as a gardener. This early experience with the land paved the way for his future in commercial agriculture, though he remained culturally tied to his origins, still listing his father, Angelo, in Italy as his closest relative.

By 1920, Louis had moved just south of the Seattle city limits to the Duwamish area, where he shared a farm with his older brother, Antonio. Both brothers worked as independent farmers, focusing entirely on their land. Though Antonio’s life was cut short in 1924, Louis carried forward the family’s entrepreneurial spirit alone, eventually transitioning from the fields of South King County to the high-stakes real estate industry that would define the Segale legacy.

The rise of the “truck farmer”

By 1930, census records reveal Louis’s professional evolution in the Woodinville area, located northeast of Seattle.

1930 U.S. Census record of Luigi/Louis Segale

At age 43, his profession was described as “Truck Farmer,” a historical term for a specialized market gardener who grew high-demand produce — such as tomatoes, lettuce, and onions — specifically for sale in nearby urban centers.

Louis operated as an independent business owner, and his farm’s location near the Sunset Highway (a major east-west artery) was a strategic masterstroke. This proximity allowed him to quickly transport, or “truck,” his fresh vegetables into the rapidly expanding markets of Seattle.

The records from this era depict a man who had firmly entered the American middle class. While he still rented his home, the census notes that Louis owned a radio set, a significant high-tech luxury at the time that served as both a status symbol and a vital link to the wider world. He lived and worked within a vibrant, multicultural community of immigrants from Italy, Japan, Scandinavia, and the Philippines, all of whom played a crucial role in building the diverse economic fabric of the Seattle metropolitan area.

Luigi marries Rina Rosa

In early 1932, at the age of 47, Louis (Luigi) Segale traveled back to his ancestral home in Liguria to begin a new chapter of his life. Having established himself as a successful independent farmer in Washington State, he returned to Italy to find a partner and start the family that would ultimately include his son, Mario.

The official marriage records, filed in February 1932, document the union between two local families rooted in the Italian countryside. Luigi, an American veteran and established immigrant, wed Rina Rosa Domenica Pisani, a 20-year-old woman from the village of Brignole. Because Rina was still considered a minor at the time, her mother, Dora Tosi, provided the formal consent required for the ceremony.

Shortly after the ceremony, celebrated by the local parish priest, the couple set their sights back on the United States. They would soon return to the U.S. to welcome their son, Mario, into a life of burgeoning opportunity.

This 1932 marriage record from Rezzoaglio, Italy, documenting Luigi’s marriage to Rina

The Segale family in post-war America

By the dawn of the 1940s, the Segale family had transitioned from struggling immigrants to pillars of the agricultural community in South King County, just south of the Seattle city limits. During this time, Mario Segale grew up in a family that had achieved financial stability and was becoming increasingly involved in the local community.

The 1940 U.S. Census reveals that Louis Segale had built an exceptionally prosperous life in the Orillia district (an area between modern-day Renton and Tukwila). While many of his neighbors were still recovering from the Great Depression — with several listed as working for government relief programs — Louis was thriving. Now a naturalized citizen, he operated a vegetable farm that he owned outright, valued at $4,000.

Most impressively, Louis reported a 1939 income of $5,000, which in modern terms is equivalent to approximately $110,000. This placed the Segales in a high-income bracket for the era, marking them as one of the most successful agricultural operators in a diverse community of Italian, Japanese, and Filipino farmers. At the center of this wealthy household was 6-year-old Mario Segale, a native-born American living with his successful father and his mother, Rina, who at that time was still recorded as an Italian citizen.

Mario Segale and his family in the 1940 U.S. Census

“Hearts open to foster children”

In the late 1950s and early 1960s, the Segales became deeply involved in the foster care system. A 1961 feature in The Catholic Northwest Progress saluted the couple for their dedication to the Archdiocese of Seattle’s foster program. During a period when the need for foster homes was surging — from 1,200 children in 1958 to 1,500 by 1960 — Louis and Rina Segale were among the families who opened their doors to children in need.

Their name appears in the official directory of foster families, which shows that theirs was a home where hard work and community involvement went hand in hand. This influence stayed with Mario into his adult life.

Mario’s parents appear in a list of foster families in The Catholic Northwest Progress

Mario’s 12th birthday party

In the spring of 1946, a modest social column in the local newspaper La Gazzetta Italiana captured a milestone for a young boy who would one day become a global cultural icon. The article, titled “Festa di Compleanno,” documents the 12th birthday celebration of Mario Arnold Segale, providing a vivid snapshot of the Italian-American community in post-World War II Seattle.

The newspaper describes his parents, Luigi and Rina Segale, as “well-known compatriots” (noti connazionali), hosting the celebration at their “beautiful new residence” at 120 136th Avenue in Seattle. This move into a new home coincided with the beginning of the post-war housing boom, signaling that the Segales had achieved a level of prosperity that set the stage for Mario’s future career in real estate and construction. While Luigi had spent decades working the soil as a “truck farmer,” he had successfully laid the groundwork for a family business empire.

Newspaper clipping from La Gazzetta Italiana documenting Mario’s 12th birthday party in the spring of 1946

Despite their American success, the celebration was steeped in the cultural traditions of Liguria. The centerpiece of the event was a traditional meal and cake prepared by Rina Segale, maintaining the culinary links to the old country. The home was filled with the sounds of a fisarmonica (accordion) played by Milo Balzarini, and the guests reportedly spent the afternoon singing together, a hallmark of Italian social gatherings.

The guest list, featuring names like Pratolongo, Siccardi, and Prandi, illustrates a classic “ethnic enclave” social structure. The Segales remained deeply connected to a network of fellow Italian-immigrant families who supported and celebrated one another’s milestones. This tight-knit community provided the foundation for Mario’s upbringing, surrounding him with the values of hard work and cultural pride.

The Segale family tree on MyHeritage

From the bricklayers of Genoa to the farms and neighborhoods of Washington State, the Segale family’s story reflects a path shaped by hard work, adaptation, and opportunity.

With the help of historical records like these, stories that might otherwise be forgotten can be rediscovered and shared. You can explore your own family history on MyHeritage and uncover the people, places, and moments that shaped your story.

The post The Real Mario: The Family Story Behind a Global Icon appeared first on MyHeritage Blog.

There are many reasons people chose to move overseas, including work opportunities, education, or the desire to reunite with family. However, many journeys took place during large-scale migration waves — periods when significant numbers of people relocated due to political upheaval, economic hardship, or social change. In this article, we explore five major migration waves from the U.K. and Ireland to the U.S., along with real examples of historical records that can help you discover more about your own family history.

Key takeaways on migration waves from the U.K. and Ireland to the U.S.

1. Migration from the U.K. and Ireland to the U.S. happened in distinct historical waves.
2. Each wave was driven by different factors, including religion, famine, war, and economic opportunity.
3. Passenger lists, passport applications, and newspapers can reveal detailed migration stories.
4. Understanding historical context can help explain why your ancestors moved.
5. MyHeritage provides access to billions of historical records to support your research.

The colonial wave (1607–1775)

The colonial wave began with the formation of Jamestown, Virginia, in May 1607, widely recognized as the first permanent English settlement in North America. From this point onward, migration steadily increased as more individuals and families sought new lives across the Atlantic.

One of the most well-known journeys of this period is the Mayflower voyage, which arrived in Plymouth, Massachusetts, in 1620. Many of these early migrants were motivated by a desire to escape religious persecution and practice their beliefs freely.

The 1630s, often referred to as the “Great Migration,” saw a significant movement of English Puritans to the Massachusetts Bay Colony. By the end of the 17th century, it is estimated that around 20,000 people had settled there, forming the foundation of early colonial society.

Another important group during this period were the Ulster Scots, also known as the Scots-Irish. These were Scottish families who had previously settled in Ulster but later faced economic pressure and religious discrimination. Between 1717 and 1775, approximately 250,000 Presbyterians emigrated from this region, with many settling in Pennsylvania, including cities like Philadelphia and Chester.

Forced migration during the colonial period

As well as voluntary migration, this period also saw forced movement. Thousands of Irish prisoners of war were transported during the 1650s as part of the Cromwellian Transplantation. These individuals were sent as indentured servants, typically bound by contracts lasting 7 to 10 years. Many were sent to Barbados, Virginia, and Maryland. After completing their contracts, some chose to remain and build new lives in these regions.

Those who traveled during the colonial wave can often be found in historical records on MyHeritage, including collections such as “Passenger and Immigration Lists, 1500 – 1900.” These records include individuals like William Brewster, who arrived on the Mayflower in 1620 with his wife Mary and their sons, Love and Wrestling. Additional records show that other family members followed in later voyages, illustrating how migration often occurred in stages.

The post-Napoleonic surge (1815–1844)

This migration wave began after the end of the Napoleonic Wars, which concluded with the Second Treaty of Paris. The return of approximately 400,000 soldiers to Britain created significant economic pressure, as many struggled to find employment.

At the same time, industries across Britain and Ireland were undergoing major changes. Farmers faced rising debt, while industrialization reduced the demand for manual labor in sectors such as textiles and manufacturing. In regions like the Scottish Highlands and parts of Ireland, land clearances forced many small-scale farmers off their land.

As a result, emigration became an attractive option. Between 1815 and 1844, it is estimated that around one million people left the U.K. and Ireland for the U.S.

New farming opportunities await

For many migrants, the U.S. offered a fresh start. Land was significantly more affordable, and expanding cities created demand for skilled workers such as carpenters, masons, and weavers.

Letters sent home by early migrants often encouraged others to follow, creating chain migration patterns that shaped entire communities.

Travel routes also evolved during this time. Many migrants chose to travel via Canada, as it was often cheaper, and then continued overland to the U.S. If you find a record of an ancestor arriving in Canada, check whether their final destination was listed as the United States.

Passenger lists from this period provide valuable insights. For example, records of the ship John William, which departed from Ireland in 1822, show families and young couples relocating. Occupations listed include farmer, distiller, weaver, and carpenter, reflecting the economic pressures that drove migration.

Passenger list of ship John William which departed from Ireland in 1822

The Great Famine and industrial era (1845–1860)

This period includes one of the most significant and tragic migration events in history: the Great Famine in Ireland. A widespread failure of the potato crop led to the deaths of around one million people, while another 1.5 million emigrated. A large proportion of these emigrants chose the U.S. as their destination. The impact on Ireland’s population was profound, and many families were permanently separated.

Conditions during these journeys were often extremely difficult. Overcrowded ships and poor sanitation contributed to high mortality rates, with some voyages seeing death rates as high as 30%.

Alongside Irish migrants, individuals from England, Wales, and Scotland also emigrated during this period. Industrialization continued to reshape the workforce, forcing many to choose between changing trades or seeking opportunities abroad.

Passport applications may give new leads

Records from this period can provide detailed insights into individual migration stories. The “United States Passport Applications, 1795–1925” collection, for example, includes valuable personal information.

One example is Patrick Joy, born in Portlaw, Waterford, Ireland, in 1843. His passport application records that he arrived in the U.S. in 1849 aboard the Lady Campbell and later settled in Syracuse, New York, where he lived for over 40 years. The document also names his father, Richard Joy, offering an important clue for further research.

Passport application of Patrick Joy

Additional passenger lists from this era include individuals like John Cahill, a 23-year-old Irish farmer who traveled from Liverpool to New York in 1849 aboard the ship John Baring. These records highlight the scale and urgency of migration during the famine years.

The “new immigration” transition (1870–1920)

Migration patterns continued to evolve during this period. While people from the U.K. and Ireland continued to relocate, this era also saw increased migration from Southern and Eastern Europe.

Groups arriving from the U.K. and Ireland included skilled industrial workers such as engineers and weavers, as well as single women seeking employment as domestic servants.

A new traveling experience

Advancements in transportation significantly changed the migration experience. Journeys that once took weeks or months could now be completed in a matter of days, making travel more accessible and affordable.

This shift also led to an increase in repeat journeys, with some individuals traveling back and forth between Britain and the U.S. for work.

Immigration records became more detailed during this time, particularly after the opening of Ellis Island in 1892. These records often include information such as last residence, relatives in the U.S., and physical descriptions.

Passenger lists from ships like the Furnessia, which departed Glasgow for New York in 1910, show entire families traveling together. Occupations listed include typists, engineers, miners, and weavers, providing insight into the economic landscape of the time.

Passenger list of ship Furnessia which departed Glasgow for New York in 1910

The post-war era, “brain drain,” and the Irish “new wave” (1945–present)

After World War II, migration to the U.S. took on new forms. Some individuals left Europe to rebuild their lives after the devastation of war, while others were drawn by economic opportunities.

One notable group included British war brides — women who married American soldiers during the war and later moved to the U.S. Records such as naturalization petitions provide detailed accounts of these transitions.

For example, the naturalization record of Elizabeth Vinson shows that she was born in Beckermet, England, in 1923 and married an American serviceman in 1944 before relocating to West Virginia.

Naturalization Record of Elizabeth Vinson

The “brain drain” of the 1950s to 1970s saw highly skilled professionals, including doctors and engineers, leave Britain for better salaries and working conditions in the U.S. Passenger lists from this period reflect this shift, showing more specialized occupations than earlier waves.

The Irish “new wave”

In the late 20th and early 21st centuries, Irish migration to the U.S. was driven largely by education and career opportunities. Many migrants were university graduates seeking international experience.

Unlike earlier waves, these migrations were not always permanent. Some individuals chose to return to Ireland after gaining experience abroad, while others settled long-term in cities such as New York, Chicago, and Boston.

Newspapers available on OldNews.com can provide additional context for these stories. Articles and obituaries often include detailed accounts of individuals’ lives and family origins. For example, accounts like that of Coleman Foley describe the life of an Irish immigrant who succeeded in achieving the American Dream, offering valuable context for genealogical research.

Coleman Foley in Northern Virginia Sun – August 1961

How to research your ancestors’ migration

Step 1: Start your search on MyHeritage

Begin by searching for your ancestors on MyHeritage. Enter names, locations, and estimated dates to uncover relevant matches and begin building your family tree.

Step 2: Explore historical records

Search billions of historical records to find passenger lists, census data, and immigration documents that reveal when and how your ancestors moved.

Step 3: Build and grow your family tree

As you discover new information, add it to your family tree to connect generations and better understand your family history.

Discover your family history with MyHeritage

MyHeritage helps you explore your family history, build your family tree, and search billions of historical records from around the world. By connecting documents, historical records, and family connections, you can uncover the stories behind your ancestors’ journeys and gain a deeper understanding of your heritage. What will you discover about your family’s past?

FAQs on migration waves from the U.K. and Ireland to the U.S.

What are migration waves?

Migration waves are periods when large numbers of people move from one place to another, often due to shared economic, political, or social factors.

Why did people leave the U.K. and Ireland for the U.S.?

Common reasons include religious persecution, economic hardship, famine, war, and the search for better opportunities.

What records can help trace immigrant ancestors?

Passenger lists, census records, passport applications, and newspaper articles are all valuable sources for tracing migration history.

How can MyHeritage help with family history research?

MyHeritage provides access to billions of historical records and allows users to build and grow a family tree, helping uncover connections and ancestral stories.

Can I find recent ancestors in historical records?

Yes, depending on availability and privacy restrictions, records from the 20th century may provide information about more recent generations.

Chloe O’Shea is an English genealogy specialist with an MA in Museum Studies and founder of The Past Revealed. She has authored several books, including Tracing your Staffordshire Ancestors (2025), and is a regular contributor to “Who Do You Think You Are?” Magazine, Family Tree, and Dorset Magazine. Her newest book, Tracing Your Ancestors Using Newspapers, is due for release at the end of April 2026.

The post Tracing Migration Waves from the U.K. and Ireland to the U.S. appeared first on MyHeritage Blog.

This innovation of personal computing in one small corner of northern California, dubbed “Silicon Valley,” also pulled in tech talent from around the world; a Brain Drain that not only changed the lives of individuals and their families but has had far-reaching consequences for their new homeland as well as the countries they left behind. For the modern genealogist, this era created a new set of historical records, as the digital revolution left behind a paper trail of visas, patents, and professional milestones that document a massive global movement that has impacted many people’s family tree.

Key takeaways on the Apple computer anniversary

• Historical milestone: April 2026 marks the 50th anniversary of Apple Computer, founded in a Los Altos garage in 1976.
• The “brain drain”: The rise of personal computing created an insatiable demand for global talent, drawing engineers and scientists to Silicon Valley.
• A new American Dream: The migration shifted the definition of success toward securing H-1B visas and tech startup stock options.
• Brain circulation: While many countries lost top talent, the “drain” often evolved into a “circulation” where migrants contributed back to their homelands through remittances and knowledge transfer.
• Genealogical modernity: Family historians can now track recent ancestors through digital “ship manifests” like university records, professional journals, and patents.

The roots of modern migration

In fact, you could say that the Silicon Valley Brain Drain could be traced back to Apple itself. The biological parents of Steve Jobs were Abdulfattah “John” Jandali, a Syrian-born immigrant, and Joanne Schieble, an American of Swiss-German descent, who met while studying at the University of Wisconsin. Steve was adopted as an infant by Paul Jobs, a machinist, and Clara Jobs, an accountant, who raised him in California.

Abdulfattah Jandali immigration records

Why Silicon Valley attracted global talent

By the late 1970s, personal computers made computing widely available to the public, ending the dominance of large mainframes designed for corporations and governments. Companies like Apple and others were not just building computers for the home; they led an explosion of innovation.

They led an almost insatiable need for people who understood engineering, math, physics, and the new language of user-friendly software coding. If someone was sufficiently qualified and aimed, quite literally, for the frontier of human knowledge, Silicon Valley was the place to be.

Redefining the American Dream

For the companies in the Valley, this accessible global talent pipeline was a huge advantage. The region’s success has always rested heavily on immigrant talent. Foreign-born founders and engineers helped create iconic hardware and software companies and drove key innovations. Along the way, this previously quiet, agricultural and demographically homogenous region of America was transformed, seemingly overnight, by diverse and highly educated immigrant communities.

As the tech industry expanded, it reshaped what success looked like. Instead of traditional industrial careers, many people pursued education in computer science, international relocation, and roles in fast-growing startups. This shift also changed family trajectories. Moving abroad for work became more common, often creating new branches in a family tree and reshaping how families stayed connected across borders.

Global consequences and “brain circulation”

For the countries these tech migrants came from, the picture is more complicated. When a nation loses a big share of its top engineers and computer scientists, it loses more than just individuals; it loses potential industries, research capacity, and future mentors who might have trained the next generation.

Turning the drain into an asset

However, the story isn’t all bad news for source countries. These tech-savvy migrants usually sent money back home in the form of hard currency remittances. Furthermore, many maintained strong ties with their home countries, treating a stint in Silicon Valley as a high-end training program.

When people returned home or contributed from afar through investment, partnerships, and knowledge transfer, the original brain drain started to look more like a global exchange of skills and ideas: a “brain circulation.” In places like India, Taiwan, and China, those who spent time in “The Valley” have played a big role in seeding domestic software and hardware industries that are now major global players. Still, not every country has benefited equally. Nations with relatively stable institutions and active tech policies are better positioned to turn their tech diaspora into an asset, encouraging return migration, attracting investment, and building bridges between local companies and global tech hubs. Countries with weaker infrastructure or ongoing instability struggle to do that, and for them, the loss of skilled people can feel more permanent and damaging.

The future of the digital family tree

Today, the landscape is shifting again. Silicon Valley remains powerful, but high living costs, shifting immigration rules, and the rise of other tech hubs in other parts of the U.S., Europe, Australia, and Asia are changing where talent goes and how it moves. Remote work and distributed teams also now make it easier for engineers to contribute to cutting-edge projects without physically relocating, which may soften some of the traditional brain-drain patterns.

Tracing modern ancestors

In genealogy, we often talk about push and pull factors. While moving to California represented a chance to prosper on the global stage, it often meant a sudden fracture in the family unit. As you look at your own family tree, you might find a person who made the leap during the personal computing boom.

Have you ever wondered how your relatives may have been part of the tech boom? If someone in your family moved during this period, you can often trace their journey through:

• University alumni records and yearbooks
• Professional journals
• Patent filings
• Air travel and immigration records
• Government documentation and visas

These are the contemporary manifests of the ancient ships on which our great-grandparents traveled. Keep in mind that they weren’t merely relocating for employment. They were a part of the vast, international intellectual movement that shaped the modern era by redefining what we knew as “skilled migration.” They also play a significant role in the fact that we can now video chat in real time on mobile devices or discover distant cousins across the world with only a mouse click. You can explore these connections using historical records available on MyHeritage, uncovering how global events shaped your family’s story.

FAQs on the Apple computer anniversary

Why is it called a “brain drain”?

It refers to the migration of highly skilled individuals from one country to another, which can reduce expertise in the country they leave.

What is “brain circulation”?

This occurs when migrants maintain ties with their home countries and contribute through investment, knowledge, or eventual return.

How did the personal computing boom change the American Dream?

It shifted focus toward global careers, specialized education, and opportunities in the tech industry.

How can I find ancestors who moved during the tech boom?

You can trace them through university records, professional publications, patents, and immigration documents.

The post Apple at 50: How the Home Computer Sparked a Global Brain Drain appeared first on MyHeritage Blog.

Search them to discover a family treasure!

Explore the 17 New and Updated Historical Record Collections Added This Month

Collection	Description	Number of Records	Link to Search
Australia, Names & Stories in Newspapers from OldNews.com	An index of of names, events, and stories, found in newspapers from Australia on OldNews.com. The records were extracted from the newspaper articles using advanced AI technology developed by MyHeritage.	11,893,771 records added for a total of 2,024,834,756 records	Search collection now
Canada Newspapers from OldNews.com	An index of of historical national, regional and local newspapers and periodicals from Canada was created using MyHeritage’s advanced optical character recognition (OCR) of articles primarily focused from the mid-1700s to early-2000s.	651,705 pages added for a total of 2,420,003 pages	Search collection now
Canada, Names & Stories in Newspapers from OldNews.com	An index of names, events, and stories, found in newspapers from Canada on OldNews.com.	8,516,177 records added for a total of 461,640,570 records	Search collection now
Canada, Quebec Births, 1820-1917	An index of birth and stillbirth records from Quebec, Canada, between the years 1820 and 1917.	7,682,296 records	Search collection now
Canada, Quebec Deaths, 1825-1917	An index of death records from Quebec, Canada, between the years 1825 and 1917.	3,330,127 records	Search collection now
Canada, Quebec Marriages, 1820-1917	An index of marriage records from Quebec, Canada, between the years 1820 and 1917.	2,548,707 records	Search collection now
Czechia, Moravian-Silesian Region, Opava Births and Baptisms 1800-1920	An index of civil birth and church baptism records from Opava, Moravian-Silesian Region, Czechia between the years 1800 and 1920.	6,013,794 records	Search collection now
Czechia, Moravian-Silesian Region, Opava Deaths, 1800-1950	An index of civil death and church burial records from Opava, Czechia between the years 1800 and 1950.	3,745,296 records	Search collection now
Czechia, Moravian-Silesian Region, Opava Marriages, 1800-1945	An index of civil and church marriage records from Opava, Moravian-Silesian Region, Czechia between the years 1800 and 1945.	2,840,505 records	Search collection now
Ireland, Petty Sessions Court Registers 1828-1926	An index of registers from the Petty Sessions courts in Ireland between the years 1828 and 1926, which handled minor civil and criminal cases such as debt recovery, neighbor disputes, and small-scale offenses.	23,456,657 records	Search collection now
Netherlands Newspapers from OldNews.com	An index of historical national, regional and local newspapers, periodicals and gazettes from The Netherlands was created using MyHeritage’s advanced optical character recognition (OCR) of articles primarily focused from the mid 1700s to mid 1900s.	97,463 newspaper pages added for a total of 11,225,943 pages	Search collection now
Netherlands, Names & Stories in Newspapers from OldNews.com	An index of records of names, events, and stories, found in newspapers from the Netherlands.	227,634,581 records	Search collection now
Spain Newspapers from OldNews.com	An index of historical national, regional and local newspapers and gazettes from Spain was created using MyHeritage’s advanced optical character recognition (OCR) of articles primarily focused from the late 1600s to early 2000s.	3,518,418 newspaper pages added for a total of 21,746,615 pages	Search collection now
Spain, Names & Stories in Newspapers from OldNews.com	An index of names, events, and stories, found in newspapers from Spain.	49,728,874 records added for a total of 332,936,632 records	Search collection now
United Kingdom Newspapers from OldNews.com	An index of historical local, regional and national British newspapers, periodicals and gazettes includes advanced optical character recognition (OCR) of articles dating back to 1665.	2,198,105 newspaper pages added for a total of 14,890,648 pages	Search collection now
United Kingdom, British Air Force Lists, 1919-1945	An index of British Air Force records, covering the crucial years between the World Wars and the duration of WWII (1919-1945).	3,947,075 records	Search collection now
United Kingdom, Names & Stories in Newspapers from OldNews.com	An index of records of names, events, and stories, found in newspapers from the United Kingdom on OldNews.com.	7,814,121 records added for a total of 799,414,468 records	Search collection now

1. 1. Australia, Names & Stories in Newspapers from OldNews.com
      This collection contains records of names, events, and stories, found in newspapers from Australia on OldNews.com. The records were extracted from the newspaper articles using advanced AI technology developed by MyHeritage. Records typically include the name of the individuals mentioned, the relationships between the individuals, the newspaper name, the publication place and date, and a snippet of text from the newspaper containing the reference. Records may include events such as birth and marriage announcements, obituaries, public achievements, business events, and more. Records often include additional details such as residence, occupation, and associated locations or institutions. Every record includes a useful summary of the article, generated automatically by AI.
      Search Australia, Names & Stories in Newspapers from OldNews.com
   2. Canada Newspapers from OldNews.com
      This collection of historical national, regional and local newspapers and periodicals from Canada was created using MyHeritage’s advanced optical character recognition (OCR) of articles primarily focused from the mid-1700s to early-2000s. In addition to daily and weekly publications that often include names of relatives, they also contain a wide range of vital record substitutes such as birth, marriage, death notices and obituaries.
      Search Canada Newspapers from OldNews.com
   3. Canada, Names & Stories in Newspapers from OldNews.com
      This collection contains records of names, events, and stories, found in newspapers from Canada on OldNews.com. The records were extracted from the newspaper articles using advanced AI technology developed by MyHeritage. Records typically include the name of the individuals mentioned, the relationships between the individuals, the newspaper name, the publication place and date, and a snippet of text from the newspaper containing the reference. Records may include events such as birth and marriage announcements, obituaries, public achievements, business events, and more. Records often include additional details such as residence, occupation, and associated locations or institutions. Every record includes a useful summary of the article, generated automatically by AI.
      Search Canada, Names & Stories in Newspapers from OldNews.com
   4. Canada, Quebec Births, 1820-1917
      This collection contains birth and stillbirth records from Quebec, Canada, between the years 1820 and 1917. Records typically include the name of the child, the date and place of birth, and the names of the parents. Stillbirth records may also include the death date.
      Search Canada, Quebec Births, 1820-1917
   5. Canada, Quebec Deaths, 1825-1917
      This collection contains death records from Quebec, Canada, between the years 1825 and 1917. Records typically include the name of the deceased, the date of birth, the date and place of death and the names of the parents and spouse.
      Search Canada, Quebec Deaths, 1825-1917
   6. Canada, Quebec Marriages, 1820-1917
      This collection contains marriage records from Quebec, Canada, between the years 1820 and 1917. Records typically include the names of the groom and the bride, their date and place of marriage and the names of their parents. Some records may also include the dates and places of birth for both the groom and the bride.
      Search Canada, Quebec Marriages, 1820-1917
   7. Czechia, Moravian-Silesian Region, Opava Births and Baptisms 1800-1920
      This collection contains civil birth and church baptism records from Opava, Moravian-Silesian Region, Czechia between the years 1800 and 1920. Records typically include the name of the child, the date and place of birth and the names of the parents.
      Search Czechia, Moravian-Silesian Region, Opava Births and Baptisms 1800-1920
   8. Czechia, Moravian-Silesian Region, Opava Deaths, 1800-1950
      This collection contains civil death and church burial records from Opava, Czechia between the years 1800 and 1950. Records typically include the name of the child, the date and place of birth and the names of the parents.
      Search Czechia, Moravian-Silesian Region, Opava Deaths, 1800-1950
   9. Czechia, Moravian-Silesian Region, Opava Marriages, 1800-1945
      This collection contains civil and church marriage records from Opava, Moravian-Silesian Region, Czechia between the years 1800 and 1945. Records typically include the names of the groom and the bride, their date of birth, their date and place of marriage, and the names of their parents.
      Search Czechia, Moravian-Silesian Region, Opava Marriages, 1800-1945
   10. Ireland, Petty Sessions Court Registers 1828-1926
       This collection contains registers from the Petty Sessions courts in Ireland between the years 1828 and 1926, which handled minor civil and criminal cases such as debt recovery, neighbor disputes, and small-scale offenses. Records typically include the name and residence of the complainant or defendant, as well as the court location and the date of order.
       Search Ireland, Petty Sessions Court Registers 1828-1926
   11. Netherlands Newspapers from OldNews.com
       This collection of historical national, regional, and local newspapers, periodicals, and gazettes from The Netherlands was created using MyHeritage’s advanced optical character recognition (OCR) of articles primarily focused from the mid-1700s to mid-1900s. These printed articles feature daily news that may include mentions of relatives, and offer a rich variety of vital record substitutes, such as birth, marriage, and death notices, along with obituaries.
       Search Netherlands Newspapers from OldNews.com
   12. Netherlands, Names & Stories in Newspapers from OldNews.com
       This collection contains records of names, events, and stories, found in newspapers from the Netherlands. The records were extracted from the newspaper articles using advanced AI technology developed by MyHeritage. Records typically include the name of the individuals mentioned, the relationships between the individuals, the newspaper name, the publication place and date, and a snippet of text from the newspaper containing the reference and the full OCR text through the use of MyHeritage’s advanced optical character recognition (OCR). Records may include events such as birth and marriage announcements, obituaries, public achievements, business events, and more. Records often include additional details such as residence, occupation, and associated locations or institutions. Every record includes a useful summary of the article, generated automatically by AI.
       Search Netherlands, Names & Stories in Newspapers from OldNews.com
   13. Spain Newspapers from OldNews.com
       This collection of historical national, regional, and local newspapers and gazettes from Spain was created using MyHeritage’s advanced optical character recognition (OCR) of articles primarily focused from the late 1600s to early 2000s. In addition to news of the day that may contain names of relatives, they contain a wide range of vital record substitutes such as birth, marriage, death notices and obituaries.
       Search Spain Newspapers from OldNews.com
   14. Spain, Names & Stories in Newspapers from OldNews.com
       This collection contains records of names, events, and stories, found in newspapers from Spain. The records were extracted from the newspaper articles using advanced AI technology developed by MyHeritage. Records typically include the name of the individuals mentioned, the relationships between the individuals, the newspaper name, the publication place and date, and a snippet of text from the newspaper containing the reference and the full OCR text through the use of MyHeritage’s advanced optical character recognition (OCR). Records may include events such as birth and marriage announcements, obituaries, public achievements, business events, and more. Records often include additional details such as residence, occupation, and associated locations or institutions. Every record includes a useful summary of the article, generated automatically by AI.
       Search Spain, Names & Stories in Newspapers from OldNews.com
   15. United Kingdom Newspapers from OldNews.com
       This index of historical local, regional and national British newspapers, periodicals and gazettes includes advanced optical character recognition (OCR) of articles dating back to 1665. Newspapers are an essential resource for genealogy and family history research as they can contain rich information about people in a family tree, through obituaries and other vital record substitutes such as birth, marriage, and death notices.
       Search United Kingdom Newspapers from OldNews.com
   16. United Kingdom, British Air Force Lists, 1919-1945
       This collection contains British Air Force records, covering the crucial years between the World Wars and the duration of WWII (1919-1945). These official records document a wide range of roles, including the service of commissioned officers, technical specialists, and medical and support staff. Records typically include the name of the individual, rank, military branch and occupation. Many entries also provide the person’s specific dates surrounding their military service.
       Search United Kingdom, British Air Force Lists, 1919-1945
   17. United Kingdom, Names & Stories in Newspapers from OldNews.com
       This collection contains records of names, events, and stories, found in newspapers from the United Kingdom on OldNews.com. The records were extracted from the newspaper articles using advanced AI technology developed by MyHeritage. Records typically include the name of the individuals mentioned, the relationships between the individuals, the newspaper name, the publication place and date, and a snippet of text from the newspaper containing the reference. Records may include events such as birth and marriage announcements, obituaries, public achievements, business events, and more. Records often include additional details such as residence, occupation, and associated locations or institutions. Every record includes a useful summary of the article, generated automatically by AI.
       Search United Kingdom, Names & Stories in Newspapers from OldNews.com

Example of what you could find in these records

One of the notable individuals featured in the newly added United Kingdom, British Air Force Lists, 1919–1945 collection is Sir Douglas Robert Steuart Bader, one of the most famous RAF fighter pilots of World War II. Despite losing both legs in an accident before the war, Bader returned to active service and became a leading figure during the Battle of Britain.

The collection includes multiple entries documenting his career over time. For example, one record lists him as a Flying Officer with a commission date of January 1932, reflecting his early years as an officer. 

Another record, published in May 1941, shows his promotion to Flight Lieutenant, with a commission date of September 1940 — right in the midst of the Battle of Britain, when he rose to prominence.

These are just two examples. In fact, Bader appears in more than 10 records within the collection, allowing researchers to follow his lengthy military career step by step through official Air Force Lists. 

Summary

We hope these valuable collections help you make new discoveries in your family history research. Searching the collections on MyHeritage is free. To view the records or to save records to your family tree, you’ll need a Data, Complete, or Omni plan.

For newspaper collections from OldNews.com, an Omni plan, or an OldNews Pro plan, is required to view the full newspaper images on OldNews.com.

If you have a family tree on MyHeritage, our Record Matching technology will notify you automatically if records from these collections match your relatives. You’ll then be able to review the record and decide if you’d like to add the new information to your family tree.

Enjoy the new collections!

The post MyHeritage Adds 366 Million Historical Records in March 2026 appeared first on MyHeritage Blog.

Now you can create a fun, free, personalized Traits Video that highlights some of your most prominent traits! The video is created with AI and showcases your strongest traits with a witty, playful twist — like steam coming out of your ears because you’re sensitive to chili peppers. It’s the kind of video that makes you smile and think “I’ve got to show this to my family and friends.”

Watch the example below of Hadar Marmor, Associate Product Manager, who oversaw the development of the entire Traits product:

How to create your video

If you haven’t taken a MyHeritage DNA test yet, order a MyHeritage DNA kit today and add Traits after you activate your kit. You’ll be able to generate your Traits Video once your results are ready.

Have DNA results but haven’t purchased Traits yet? You can get MyHeritage DNA Traits for an affordable low price and generate your Traits Video once your results are ready.

If you’re a MyHeritage DNA customer and already received your MyHeritage Trait reports, head over to the Traits overview page to create your video. You can create a Traits Video from the MyHeritage website on desktop and mobile web, and from the MyHeritage mobile app.  Here’s how to do this:

Creating a Traits Video on the MyHeritage website

Log in to your MyHeritage account and select “Traits” from the DNA menu.

Accessing Traits from the DNA menu (click to zoom)

This opens the Traits overview page. To start generating your video, click “Create Traits Video”, marked below in red.

Creating a Traits Video (click to zoom)

A window will open where you can upload your photos. Select between 1–3 selfies to upload, based on the guidelines listed below in the “Tips for best results”. More photos are likely to improve the quality of your video. Once you’ve added photos, click “Continue.”

Uploading photos to create a Traits Video (click to zoom)

Before you can create your video, you’ll be asked to consent to the Traits Video terms.

It typically takes fifteen minutes to create your video. We’ll email you as soon as it’s ready with a link to view it.

On the MyHeritage mobile app

To create a Traits Video from the MyHeritage mobile app, make sure you have the latest version installed on your device.

Open the app and tap the Traits banner at the top of the home screen, or access Traits from the app menu, marked below in red.

MyHeritage app menu (click to zoom)

To create your Traits Video, tap the 3-dot icon.

Creating a Traits Video on the MyHeritage app (click to zoom)

Then tap “Create Traits Video”.

Once your video is ready, we recommend rotating your phone to view the video in full frame.

How it works

The Traits Video uses AI technology to create a personalized “mashup” video that uses your photos and features five of your traits. These traits are randomly selected among those where you had either a high/more likely or a low/less likely result. Traits for which you had a normal or average result will be excluded. The result is an entertaining 48-second video.

Examples

Check out these examples from members of the MyHeritage team. Each one features different traits!

Gal Zrihen, Lead Product Manager:

Eden Cohen, QA Engineer who worked on this feature:

Valentina Wainstein, Localization Team Lead:

Maor Malul, Wiki Community Manager:

Tips for best results

The quality of your Traits Video depends largely on the photos you upload. You can use as few as one photo, but for best results we recommend uploading 3 close-up headshots that follow the guidelines below:

• Choose clear, high-resolution selfies of you alone — ideally one front-facing, and the other two slightly angled profiles.
• Avoid anything that obscures your face, including sunglasses and hats.
• Any accessories you wear or other visual cues in your photos may appear in the video.

Customizing your Traits Video

Since the five scenes in the video are automatically selected, we understand that some users may dislike one or more of the scenes that were included, but love the rest. After viewing your video, you have the option to customize it and select which scenes you’d like to exclude from your final video. That way, you’ll end up with a result you’ll feel more comfortable to share with your loved ones. To do this, click “Customize video”.

View and customize your Traits Video (click to zoom)

Check the boxes next to all scenes you want to include. Then, click “Update”. Please note that you can customize the video only once. The new video will override the previous one, so it’s a good idea to download the video before customizing, just in case. You’ll receive an email as soon as the updated video is ready.

Customizing your Traits Video (click to zoom)

Sharing

Traits Videos are perfect for sharing on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, X, and other social media platforms. We encourage you to share your videos with the hashtags #MyHeritage and #MyHeritageDNA. You can also download your videos to your computer or mobile device, and share them later however you’d like.

To share your video from the website, click the “Share” icon at the bottom of the video player.

Sharing your Traits Video from the MyHeritage website (click to zoom)

Privacy

Any photos you upload for the Traits Video feature will be stored in your MyHeritage account. You can delete your uploaded photos at any time.

The Traits Video feature uses technology provided by a third party that does not obtain rights to your photos or to the resulting video. Before your video is generated, we’ll ask for your explicit consent to allow MyHeritage to process your photos for this purpose.

Responsibility

Please use the Traits Video feature responsibly:

• Don’t upload photos of living people without their permission.
• Don’t upload photos that depict hate, violence, pornography, or any other offensive subject matter.
• Traits Videos are meant to be fun — if a result could offend someone, please don’t share it.

Thank you for your cooperation.

Cost

Creating a Traits Video is free. In the future, we may introduce new Traits Video capabilities that require an additional fee or subscription.

FAQ

What are Trait reports?

Trait reports reveal how your genetics influence your personality and characteristics, from taste preferences and sleep patterns to exercise response and more. They don’t provide medical information. They offer a fascinating glimpse into many characteristics that make you unique.

How long does it take to get Trait reports and to create a Traits Video?

After you purchase MyHeritage DNA Traits and give your consent, we’ll start generating your results. They are usually ready within one hour.

Once your Trait reports are ready, you can create your Traits Video. This typically takes about fifteen minutes.

I previously uploaded my DNA data to MyHeritage from another service. Can I still get Trait reports and create a Traits Video?

Yes. If you’ve previously uploaded your DNA from Ancestry, 23andMe, or FamilyTreeDNA, you can purchase the Traits add-on and receive Trait reports based on your existing DNA data. Once the reports are ready, you can generate a Traits Video.

Can I choose which of my traits appear in my video?

The traits in your video are randomly selected based on your results. After you view the video for the first time, you’ll be able to customize it, exclude the scenes you don’t like, and generate a final video for sharing.

Can I generate multiple Traits Videos for the same kit?

Currently, no. Only one Traits Video may be created per kit. However, we’re considering adding a feature for subscribers that would allow them to create more than one video, each with a different selection of traits. We’ll share an update in a blog post if and when this becomes available.

I don’t love the video output, can I delete it and start over?

Not just yet, but it’s on our roadmap.

How much does it cost to create a Traits Video?

Creating a Traits Video is free for customers who have purchased the Traits add-on.

I love my Traits Video. Can I share it with family and friends?

Absolutely! Sharing your Traits Video is simple. Use the “Download” or “Share” buttons in the video player. You can download the video to your computer or mobile device, or share it directly on social media.

Create your Traits Video!

Ready to star in your own Traits Video? Follow the instructions in this post and have fun!

Special thanks go to our team members Golan Levi, Concept Manager and UX Expert, and Ori Shraiber, Product Designer, who collaborated to invent this feature!

The post New: Star in Your Own Traits Video appeared first on MyHeritage Blog.

I have been married for 45 years and I had 4 children: Cindy, Céline, Cyril, and Coralie. In 2003, I began my genealogical research into the family of my husband, Marc Leschaud, because his surname, written in this way, was not very common in Switzerland. He is originally from Geneva, and at that time, we were the only couple on the Internet with that name.

My various research efforts taught me that in the 1600s and 1700s, my husband’s family bore the name Leschot and that they originated from Le Locle in the canton of Neuchâtel. Furthermore, it appears that the name Léchot or Leschot could originally be a variant of Lescot (= The Scotsman).

In November 2015 and April 2024, we unfortunately lost two daughters, each shortly after the birth of a child. We therefore have three grandchildren who have lost their mothers.

During this second period of mourning, I restarted my genealogical research, but this time on my own family — that is, the Schmid family, originally from Frutigen in the Canton of Bern, Switzerland.

An aerial view of Frutigen, Switzerland

 In June 2024, MyHeritage advertised DNA tests that can reveal our geographical origins and also might help us find family members.

For fun, I suggested to my husband that we both take a DNA test, which might confirm if the name Leschaud belonged to a Scotsman who, according to legend, fought at Morat-Grandson in 1476 and married a young woman from Franche-Comté. On July 27, 2024, when my husband’s test results came back, we indeed saw that he had over 25% British-English-Scottish origins, which amused us greatly as it perfectly matched his supposed Scottish roots.

A detail from a painting depicting the Battle of Morat (1476), in which Marc’s ancestor fought, according to legend

The results of my own test arrived a day later, and I couldn’t believe my eyes when I read: “Good news! We have discovered DNA matches for you. Marianne Dessarzin shares 25.3% DNA with you, which suggests she is likely your half-sister!”

It was a total shock! How could this be possible? This question ran through my head all night. The next day, I contacted Marianne, who had received the results at the same time as I did, asking for her impression because I couldn’t understand how it was possible.

Since my parents had already passed away, I couldn’t ask them for explanations, and I struggled to make sense of it. I was born in late November 1957, and my half-sister was born shortly before me in February 1957!!! I had never known of any sister other than Suzi, my elder sister, and Rolf, my big brother.

In the first message exchanged with Marianne, she explained that she was not at all surprised; she was born in La Chaux-de-Fonds in February 1957, abandoned at birth, and later adopted by a Swiss family. We decided to speak by phone the following day to learn more about Marianne’s journey, her search for her biological mother, and to talk about my father, who was clearly also hers.

Cathy’s father as a young man

As our telephone conversations progressed, we began to understand how this relationship happened. In the years 1956–1957, Marianne’s mother was working in the hospital at St. Imier as a laundry maid, and my father was staying alone in the village, just 100 meters from the hospital, away from his family. His official residence was still in Frutigen, and he was working in Renan because there was high unemployment in the Bernese Oberland. He was looking for an apartment in the Bernese Jura to move there with his family. While my mother was waiting to give birth to their third child (me), she was living with her parents in Frutigen along with my sister Suzi and my brother Rolf.

St. Imier, Switzerland, where Marianne’s parents met

In the 1950s, people did not travel much, and since money was scarce, my father Friedrich only rarely returned to his family. Friedrich (Fritz) certainly met Marianne’s mother during an evening out or over a drink, and they hit it off. What happened next is a matter of guesswork, but the result is simple: Marianne and I are half-sisters, and we found each other thanks to this DNA test.

Marianne and I exchanged numerous messages and phone calls, and we very quickly noticed that we had much in common. It feels to me as though we have known each other forever.

Marianne had two children, including a daughter who was born on May 20, 1984 — the exact same day and year of birth as my daughter Céline; an incredible coincidence, all just 50 km apart! Marianne’s older sister was born on the same day (November 25) as me!

Cathy, Marianne, and Suzi

The first official meeting between Marianne, Cathy, and Suzi took place on September 9, 2024, at Cathy’s home, where Marianne was able to get to know her other half-sister, Suzi. In October, we traveled to Marianne’s home in the Doubs region of France. For health reasons, Marianne was only able to meet her half-brother, Rolf, in February 2025. 

Rolf, Marianne, Suzi, and Cathy

Since that fantastic meeting, there have been many phone calls, messages, and visits with Marianne’s daughter and grandchildren. For her part, Marianne has had the chance to meet our daughter, our son, and a granddaughter who has been living with us since her mother’s passing. We call each other every week, and It is always a pleasure to catch up. Neither of us ever had any doubt that we are half-sisters.

Following the death of my second daughter, I attended therapy sessions with a psychiatrist and told him this entire story. He then asked: “Why did you conduct genealogical research? Was it to find your sister?” I think that deep down, it’s true… what a joy to have found her!

Many thanks to Cathy for sharing her amazing story with us! If you’ve also made an incredible discovery with MyHeritage, we’d love to hear about it. Please share it with us via this form or email us at stories@myheritage.com.

The post After Losing Two Daughters, I Gained a Sister Thanks to MyHeritage DNA appeared first on MyHeritage Blog.

Uncle Sam recruitment poster by James Montgomery Flagg, 1917

As the United States approaches its 250th anniversary in July 2026, we set out to revisit the story behind this all-American figure — and how our team traced him back to the real family whose legacy mirrors the nation’s own.

Uncle Sam was not born on a poster or invented by a cartoonist. He was a real human being born in Massachusetts in the 18th century. He lived an industrious life and left behind descendants who still carry his values of service and community today. Through genealogical research, MyHeritage helped bring his story full circle: from myth to man, and from history book to living memory.

The full story of how MyHeritage uncovered the real Uncle Sam — and traced his living descendants — is told in the Blast From My Past podcast episode below:

Confirming Uncle Sam’s identity

The familiar Uncle Sam image took shape in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, solidified by political cartoonist James Montgomery Flagg. His version — resolute, human, and unmistakable — became a national symbol, especially during wartime.

But historians had long suspected that the name itself pointed to a real person.

A simple search surfaced one theory again and again: a man named Samuel Wilson, who worked as a government supplier during the War of 1812. The research team turned to historical records and quickly found confirmation.

What followed was classic genealogical work: building a family tree, generation by generation, and following it forward until it reached living descendants.

The man behind the name

Samuel Wilson was born on September 13, 1766, in Massachusetts, the fifth of 13 children. His grandfather had settled in New England and bought farmland in 1665, more than a century before Samuel was born. Like many early Americans, Wilson moved often, and he eventually settled in Troy, New York.

Samuel Wilson

There, he became a respected entrepreneur and community figure. He worked as a brick mason and farmer, owned a distillery, and in 1793 opened a butcher shop with his brother. By the time the War of 1812 broke out, Wilson employed more than 100 people, many of whom already called him “Uncle Sam.”

When the U.S. Army needed supplies, Wilson was contracted to provide meat. The barrels were stamped “U.S.” for United States, alongside the initials of the government contractor. Soldiers, many of whom knew the Wilson family personally, began joking that the food came from “Uncle Sam.”

The nickname stuck. And it spread.

Though Samuel Wilson did not live to see his name become a national symbol, by the time of the Civil War, Uncle Sam had become a unifying figure representing the nation itself.

Finding the family

Tracing Samuel Wilson’s descendants was not simple. Starting with a name shared by countless men in early America meant moving cautiously, generation by generation, checking each record and relationship to be sure the trail truly belonged to the man behind Uncle Sam.

Census after census, obituary after obituary, the line eventually led to Arkansas — to a woman named Helen Hauptmann Painter.

For Helen, the discovery was not a revelation, but a confirmation.

“I’ve always pretty much been aware of the connection to Samuel Wilson,” she said. “My grandmother was the daughter of Carlton Sheldon, who was Marion Wilson’s son, and she was the granddaughter of Samuel. Granny always kept us very informed.”

Left: Helen as a young girl. Right: Helen’s grandmother, also named Helen

Family Bibles, baby books, and carefully preserved records had kept the story alive long before digital archives existed.

An entry from Granny Helen’s baby book, where her grandmother Marion Wilson Sheldon wrote that she is the great-great-granddaughter of Uncle Sam

A legacy of service

Helen grew up in a large Catholic family in Conway, Arkansas, where stories of Uncle Sam occasionally spilled into public life, from school projects to county fair parades.

“I remember in the 1980s Granny contacted our local fair committee and we rode in the county fair parade as the only living descendent of Uncle Sam,” she remembers. “We rode behind Jerry Lee Lewis, as best I recall.”

For Helen, Uncle Sam was never just a national symbol. He was a working man who provided for others and served his community, and that example shaped how her family understood who they were and how they should live. Helen carried that legacy into her own life as a registered nurse, just as her son Trey did through his military service.

Helen with her son Trey

Trey Hauptmann, a 20-year Navy veteran and senior chief petty officer, keeps an iconic Uncle Sam poster hanging in his office. It makes him smile every time he sees it.

“It says ‘I want you to join the U.S. Army,’ and here I am in the Navy,” he says with a chuckle. But the image also reminds him of the man behind it — and the responsibility that comes with the name. He mentioned to Helen that while Uncle Sam supplied the army with the meat and pork they needed, he provides them with Band-Aids they need. “So in some ways Samuel Wilson has influenced his belief in assisting people and helping people,” she says.

Walking in Uncle Sam’s footsteps

Years later, stationed in Newport, Rhode Island, Try finally made the trip his mother had long encouraged to Troy, New York.

He visited Samuel Wilson’s grave, walked the streets where his ancestor once worked, and saw Uncle Sam’s image painted on buildings throughout the city. He even stopped for a drink at a local brewery bearing the family name.

“To know Uncle Sam used to actually walk these streets the same as I’m doing right now,” he reflects, “it made everything feel real.”

America at 250 and the stories that bind us

As the United States prepares to mark 250 years since its founding, the story of Uncle Sam serves to remind us that national history is built from individual lives: from farmers, butchers, business owners, nurses, and service members whose stories intertwine across centuries.

What emerged from the research was not only the survival of Samuel Wilson’s bloodline, but the persistence of his values. Generations later, his descendants continue to serve their country and communities, and to carry forward a deep-rooted sense of patriotism and public responsibility.

For the MyHeritage Research team, uncovering the real Uncle Sam reinforced a belief they return to again and again: that every family’s history matters.

Sometimes, the story is right on the surface. Sometimes, you have to dig deep enough to uncover it. And sometimes, hidden behind an icon, you find a man whose legacy still lives, 250 years into the American story.

Daniella Levy is the Senior Copywriter and Content Manager at MyHeritage with years of experience creating content that helps people explore their family history. Through her work on hundreds of articles, blog posts, video scripts, and user education materials, she has developed deep familiarity with genealogical research tools, historical records, and the challenges and joys of family history discovery. Daniella draws on her background in creative writing to make genealogy more accessible, engaging, and meaningful for MyHeritage users worldwide. She is also the author of 3 books.

The post The Real Uncle Sam: The Family Behind the American Icon appeared first on MyHeritage Blog.