The iGENEA DNA test: An Introspective Journey into the Quintero Family's Heritage and Identity
Family name Quintero
As a Quintero, I embarked on a voyage of ancestral discovery through my iGENEA DNA test results. Uncovering Sephardic Jewish roots and the presence of Middle Eastern and North African genetics, I have come to appreciate my family name and identity with newfound respect and enriched understanding of our dynamic lineage and cultural heritage.
As a member of the Quintero family, I have always believed in the significance and uniqueness of my surname. We herald from a long line of tradition, values, and stories that richly define our family identity. However, things took an incredible turn when my recently procured iGENEA DNA test results led me on an insightful journey through our ancestry.
Primarily, I was overwhelmed by our Quintero roots tracing back to the Jewish Sephardic community in Spain during the Middle Ages, who later scattered across the globe due to the Spanish Inquisition. This unexpected revelation added a layer of depth to the history of our family. The recognition of our Jewish heritage not only attached a sense of novelty but also unveiled a trove of rich customs, history, and tradition into my understanding of our identity.
Furthermore, the iGENEA DNA test challenged existing narratives about our family resorting to a humble rural life in Latin America. The genetic breakdown showed a substantial 9% Middle Eastern DNA, suggesting our ancestors likely were explorers or traders who voyaged long before settling in the Western Hemisphere. This aspect of our past has imbued an adventurous spirit in my perception of our family identity.
There was also detection of small but not insignificant traces of North African genetic heritage. This wove tales of fortitude and adaptability in my mind, highlighting our forebears' ability to endure challenging environments and situations during their diasporic journey. This, in fact, has instilled in me a newfound respect for our ancestors and by extension, our family’s resilience and fortitude.
Reflecting on the iGENEA DNA test results, I have developed a profound appreciation for the grit and courage our forebears embodied to ensure their future generations, like us, can partake in the world's diverse experiences. Every part of this genetic puzzle has influenced my understanding of what it means to be a Quintero - we are explorers, survivors, a mixed heritage of rich culture and tradition, and above all, the proud descendants of remarkable individuals.
W. Quintero