Baby Boomers pursue genealogy to fulfill a deep need to leave a meaningful legacy.

The findings from genealogical research often lead to bewilderment that are often both positive and negative.

Lessons learned from genealogy are often painful reminders of the human condition.

Genealogy is one of the top hobbies for older Americans, with 70 percent of Baby Boomers valuing this knowledge.

According to the Pew Research Center, the generation of post-war babies in 1964 included around 72.5 million people, but is projected to be around 1 million in 2062.

Baby Boomers born between 1946 and 1964 who are approaching or have reached retirement have curiosity and goals specific to this phase of their lives. These goals include leaving a legacy, understanding their roots, and preserving their family stories.

The Erickson model of development described the eighth and final stage of life as “ego integrity versus despair.” Life review is an effective method to navigate these diametrically opposite polarities.

New Orleans and Family Connections

Growing up in New Orleans, we have always had close-knit families, and we were proud of our multiple ethnicities. I knew my maternal and paternal grandparents and spent quality time with them regularly. I learned from an early age about discrimination, segregation, and “separate but equal” from my daily environment, such as the Catholic school and health care institutions.

There was an occasional mention of “generations” before my grandparents, even though we had roots dating back to the 18th century in the city and state on both the maternal and paternal sides of the family.

What I Learned About My Family

On one visit home to see my mom, I discovered a brown, crumpled newspaper clipping and a large sepia photo of a grand........

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