New France

My fascination with human migration led me to explore haplogroups, which provide insights into our paternal and maternal ancestry spanning thousands of years. What I discovered was truly intriguing—despite our belief in being primarily of Frankish (French) descent, it turns out that our lineage actually traces back to northern origins due to the Viking age.

I specifically examined the haplogroups of those who migrated from Europe to New France, with a keen focus on the Normans (the people of Normandy Vikings) and the Bretons of Brittany (Celts). The Normans, being of Viking origins, arrived in Neustria in large numbers during 911 and 944, eventually leading to the renaming of the region to Normandy, meaning "land of the North." It comes as no surprise then that many people from Normandy possess haplogroups with Scandinavian and British Isle origins.

This revelation sheds light on the intricate historical tapestry of our ancestry. Many individuals who identify as French or English may unknowingly carry genetic markers that trace back to these northern origins. It is fascinating to think that countless people are unaware of their true ancestral heritage and mistakenly assume their lineage to be solely English or French.

Studying haplogroups has allowed me to piece together the puzzle of our past. The movements of people throughout history have shaped the genetic makeup of regions like Normandy and Brittany, contributing to the rich diversity we observe today. It is important to remember that while genetic ancestry provides valuable insights, our identity is not solely defined by our genes. Cultural, linguistic, and historical factors also play significant roles in shaping who we are.

Uncovering the truth about our origins highlights the interconnectedness of humanity. Through the exploration of haplogroups and the understanding of historical migrations, I have come to appreciate the intricate nature of our shared heritage. Our collective history is far more complex and diverse than we might have imagined, underscoring the beauty of our human story.