Family Roots & My Genes: An Unexpected Viking Connection in the Gough Line
Family name Gough
I embarked on a genealogical journey with my DNA test at iGENEA. What ensued; unexpected revelations, enriched personal narrative and an astonishing connection to Viking lineage in the Gough family.
From the moment I initiated my DNA test at iGENEA, my expectations were packed with anticipation and thrill. However, it transcended beyond my expectations, offering up a treasure trove of revelations, about my ancestral connections, particularly with the 'Gough' line, which I wasn't prepared for. These findings have transformed my self-understanding and identity, redefining my personalized historical narrative.
Until the results came in, my notion of the Gough clan was limited to a few generations who lived in Scotland based solely on family conversations and scant paperwork. The surprising turnaround was the revelation that the lineage spans beyond the Scottish borders. Miraculously, it traced back to the old Norse Seafarers, shedding light on an exciting Viking ancestry that was previously entirely unknown. This revelation provides a comprehensive understanding of the profound Scandinavian influence in terms of family values and cultural traditions, which somehow managed to withstand the test of time.
The iGENEA DNA test moved beyond just identifying the genetic makeup and geographies of my ancestors, it gave a historical perspective as well, putting my family lineage in context with historical events. It was fascinating to realize that the Gough ancestors might have been a part of the Viking expeditions, experiencing the nuances of the age, aligning with the chronicles of the Viking Age. Realising that I am a part of something so riveting and historically significant is a sheer joy that recasts my perceptions.
Moreover, the DNA test results gave a whole new dimension to the way I perceive my biological identity. The Viking genetic characteristics that I potentially possess—resilience, bravery, seafaring abilities—gave me a sense of invincibility and a spirit of exploration, an unexpected personal revelation.
The discoveries have made me reckon with my living history, transforming a fragmentary understanding to a comprehensive one. It connects me with my roots in a way I didn't perceive before, enhancing a sense of belongingness and identity. Now every family custom, trait, or a Viking show triggers a sense of kinship, a lived connection. I owe it to the iGENEA DNA test.
A. Gough