Speak with your family

Following WWII, over 11 million people were displaced and forced to seek asylum in other countries. Because many of these people were Jewish, people with Jewish ancestors can be found all over the world.

Although it may seem obvious, speaking with your relatives is one of the best ways to learn more about your family history. You might be surprised at how much information some people already have—and who knows, maybe another interested family member has already done all of the legwork for you!

You should speak with elderly relatives in particular because they are more likely to have firsthand knowledge of your ancestors. They may have avoided sharing in the past due to bad memories or simply because no one was interested.