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Midwest African Genealogy Institute

Midwest African American, Genealogy Institute

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Explore MAAGI Today!

An amazing learning experience for genealogists and researchers

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Why MAAGI?

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BlackProGen Live- MAAGI

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3 Minutes at MAAGI

Midwest African American Genealogy Institute (MAAGI), pronounced "Maggie," is a specialized institute dedicated to the study and research of African American genealogy. As one of the leading educational institutions in this field, MAAGI provides a platform for individuals to learn about the unique aspects and techniques essential for researching African American family histories. MAAGI represents an important resource for those interested in exploring and preserving African-American family histories, offering both educational resources and a supportive community for researchers at all levels of expertise.

Track 1a: Fundamental Methods and Strategies

Purpose: To provide foundational knowledge and tools for genealogical research.

Key Components:

  • Time and File Management: Organizing and maintaining genealogical records efficiently.
  • Analyzing Records: Techniques for critical assessment and interpretation of various documents.
  • Public Records and the Law: Understanding legal records and their applications in genealogy.

Target Audience: Beginners or those looking to strengthen their foundational research skills.

Format: Lectures and practical assignments focusing on basic but essential genealogical methods.

Track 1b: Methods and Strategies for Slavery Era Research

Purpose: To address the unique challenges of tracing African American ancestry during the slavery period.

Key Components:

  • Slavery and the Law: Exploring legal frameworks and how they impact genealogical research.
  • Documenting Enslaved Ancestors: Using specific records like slave schedules and plantation documents.
  • Case Studies: Practical examples and strategies for overcoming research barriers related to slavery.

Target Audience: Slave Runaway Ads, Slave Ship Manifests, Antebellum Records, Slave Schedules, 1870 Brick Wall, Slavery and the Law.

Format: Intensive workshops and case studies tailored to understanding and utilizing slavery-era records.

Track 2: DNA & Genealogy

Purpose: To integrate DNA testing into genealogical research, focusing on African American heritage.

Key Components:

  • Introduction to DNA Testing: Basics of genetic genealogy and how to interpret DNA results.
  • Privacy and Ethics: Handling sensitive information responsibly.
  • Advanced Techniques: Using third-party tools and methods for deeper analysis.

Sub-Tracks:

  • Track 2a: For beginners in DNA testing.
  • Track 2b: For those with intermediate knowledge ready to advance their DNA analysis skills.

Target Audience: Individuals interested in using DNA to complement traditional genealogical methods.

Format: Interactive sessions that cover both basic and advanced DNA topics.

Track 3: Genealogy - Pre & Post Slavery Era Research

Purpose: To expand research skills and explore new record groups from both the pre and post-slavery eras.

Key Components:

  • Pre and Post-Slavery Records: In-depth exploration of records from before and after slavery.
  • Problem Solving: Developing new methodologies and analytical skills for genealogical research.
  • Document Analysis: How to uncover hidden documentation and piece together family histories.

Target Audience: Intermediate researchers looking to build on their existing knowledge.

Format: Skill-building workshops with a focus on detailed record analysis and new research techniques.

Track 4: African-Native American Genealogy

Purpose: To explore the unique aspects of researching genealogies that include both African American and Native American ancestries.

Key Components:

  • Basic Records: Introduction to foundational records for African-Native American research.
  • Specialized Topics: Researching specific groups like the Mississippi Choctaws and Eastern Cherokees.
  • Land Allotments: Understanding and using Dawes Land Allotment records.

Target Audience: Researchers with a focus on mixed African and Native American heritage.

Format: Classes and discussions on the integration of African and Native American genealogical research.