From the Shores of Latin America to Moorish Spain: An Unexpected DNA Journey with iGENEA
Family name Salinas
In the quest for ancestral knowledge, a DNA test with iGENEA sheds unexpected light on the Salinas lineage. Unraveling DNA strands has exposed roots in ancient Moorish Spain, reshaping perceptions of self-identity.
Like many, I had been curious about my personal history, my ancestors, and the uncharted genetic territory which laid beyond the reaches of my family tree. And so, prompted by a sense of curiosity, I journeyed into my ancestry through a DNA test with iGENEA. The insights I gleaned from my genetic make-up were intriguing, often unexpected, bringing my ancestors, the Salinas, to life in ways previously unimaginable.
Prior to the test, I was under the impression that my Salinas roots were firmly entrenched in Latin America. I'd listened to enchanting stories of Spanish colonials, swashbuckling adventures, and indigenous folklore handed down the generations. I'd imagined ancestors as pioneers, navigating the Amazon rainforest, or taming arid plains.
But, iGENEA's results painted a different, unfamiliar canvas. My ancestral lineage was also deeply rooted in the Iberian Peninsula, specifically the regions of Andalusia and Catalonia in present-day Spain. My ancestral ancestors weren't just transatlantic adventurers. Instead, Medieval Moorish influence was also prevalent in my DNA.
With every revelation, my understanding of who I am, where I come from, evolved dramatically. Suddenly, I was no longer just a progeny of Latin American colonization. I embodied a resilient Catalan spirit, embodied Andalusian flair. The romanticized tales of Amazonian biodiversity gave way to the rich stories of Moorish Spain, flamenco, fiestas, and paella. History became personal.
From believing that my ancestors were predominantly agricultural workers, I learned that trade was a significant force in our ancestral past. With my newfound knowledge, I appreciated the entrepreneurial spirit that seemed to flow in my veins, reflecting more clearly on my inherent drive for trade and business models.
Taking the iGENEA DNA test has certainly reshaped my perception of self, added depth to my understanding of my ancestral lineage. Discovering these unexpected facets of my ancestral past has not only fostered a renewed sense of connection to my heritage but also allowed me to better appreciate the rich labyrinth of stories, histories, and cultures that contribute to my existence today.
P. Salinas