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Curiosity about our origins is something that many people have in common. Knowing where we come from, what our roots are and the meaning behind our surname can reveal more about our identity than we imagine. With the advancement of technology and the popularization of smartphones, it has become much easier to explore this information.
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Today, there are free apps that help to discover the origin and meaning of your surname, as well as interesting facts about your ancestry and geographic distribution. These apps work as small windows into the past, allowing you to delve into your family history in a practical and interactive way.
In this article, we present two free apps, available at App Store and Google Play, which are excellent for those who want to know more about their own surname. Both offer valuable resources for those looking for historical, genealogical and cultural information related to the family name.
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1. FamilySearch – Dive into your Family Tree
O FamilySearch is one of the most respected apps when it comes to family history. Created by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, it is free and offers a vast database with historical records from several countries, including Brazil.
What does FamilySearch offer?
In addition to allowing the creation of a complete family tree, the application allows you to search historical records based on your surname. It cross-references information with public databases and civil and ecclesiastical records from various periods, revealing valuable information about registered surnames.
When typing the desired surname, you can view:
- The origin and meaning of the surname;
- Geographical distribution over time;
- Documents and records of birth, marriage and death with that name;
- Possible family connections.
How to Use FamilySearch to Research Your Surname
- Download the FamilySearch app for free.
- Create an account or sign in with Google or Apple ID.
- Access the “Search” option and enter the desired surname.
- Explore historical information, family connections, and geographic data.
The most interesting thing about FamilySearch is that it does not require payment to provide access to records, being a great option for those who want to find out more about the history of one's own surname free of charge.
Furthermore, the application encourages collaboration between users. In other words, it is possible share stories, photos and information with other members of your family who are also building their family trees.
2. Forebears – A Global Map of Surnames
Another application widely used by curious people and researchers is Forebears, which is also available for free for both Android and iOS. It is known worldwide for its large database of surnames and their locations around the world.
Why is Forebears so interesting?
What sets Forebears apart is its ability to show where in the world your surname is most common. With it, you discover not only the probable origin of the name, but also how many people on the planet share the same surname as you.
When searching for a name, the application displays:
- The meaning and etymological origin of the surname;
- An interactive map with the countries where the name is most frequent;
- Detailed statistics on the number of people with the same surname;
- Historical and cultural curiosities related to the name.
How to use Forebears
- Install the free Forebears app on your mobile phone.
- Enter your last name in the search bar.
- View the global map and explore information about origin and distribution.
- Read the historical and etymological analyses provided by the app.
O Forebears It is ideal for those who want a overview of one's own lineage, with a visual and statistical approach that complements other genealogy tools.
Why know the history of your surname?
Understanding the origin of your surname can be much more than just a curiosity. For many people, it represents a recovery of their family roots, an opportunity to connect with the history of our ancestors and preserve the memory of the generations that came before.
Additionally, knowing the origin of your family name can spark interest in travel, study different cultures and even reconnect lost ties with distant relatives.
Applications like FamilySearch and the Forebears are powerful tools for this kind of discovery. They make the process simple, accessible, and even fun.
Tips for a more complete search
- Combine the two applications to get a broader view of the origin and evolution of your surname.
- Talk to older family members for additional clues.
- Use different spellings of the surname (such as spelling changes or adaptations made over the generations).
- Share your discoveries with your family, creating an even stronger connection to your origins.
Conclusion
Technology has transformed the way we connect with the past. Today, all it takes is a tap on your phone to discover Where did your surname come from, what does it mean and where in the world is it found?.
If you are curious to know more about your roots, the apps FamilySearch It is Forebears are great starting points. Both are available for free at App Store and on Google Play Store, offering comprehensive resources for anyone wanting to explore their family history.
Download, explore and discover where the name you carry so proudly came from. After all, knowing your past is a powerful way to better understand who you are.
