Genealogy shaped eighteenth-century America far beyond simple family records. This book explores how individuals, families, churches, and courts documented connections through diverse forms — handwritten notes, account books, silk threads, and stone carvings. Family ties wielded power across government, law, religion, and society, defining boundaries of slavery and freedom. Drawing on family records, cultural artifacts, and court documents created by both enslaved individuals and founding fathers, Lineage reveals genealogy's profound historical significance from the colonial era through the American Revolution and into the early nation.

The book is signed by the author.