The study of family history or genealogy has become very popular especially after the coming of the lnternet. People are indulging into this study for various reasons, which I shall highlight in the following paragraphs. I believe that it is largely a positive development although there are some disadvantages also. The most popular reason for studying the family history is that people want to know their roots. Besides honoring the significance of one's ancestors, studying one's family's genealogy can just be plain fascinating. It is considered by most to be the fastest-growing hobby in North America, with many surveys and media sources proclaiming that it has surpassed quilting, stamp collecting and even gardening in popularity. Another reason for studying family history is the potential to trace living relatives. This then opens up the possibility offinding out about and connecting with long-lost cousins or relatives. The ability to trace living relatives can also be impor...