Genealogy and Family History

Research Ancestors (Genealogy)

Historical and government records can help you trace your heritage. Use these free resources to research and build your family tree.

The National Archives and Records Administration has a collection of resources for genealogists. These include:
- Records of military service from the Revolutionary War to the present
- Census data from 1790 - 1940
- Documents, photos, recordings and other materials grouped by ethnicity
State archives contain materials including:
- State censuses
- Native American records
- Pioneer certificates
The U.S. Census Bureau will provide census data from 1950 - 2010 to the person named in the record or their legal heir.
The Nationwide Gravesite Locator can help you find burial locations of veterans.
The Department of the Interior provides a guide to tracing your Native American heritage.
The Statue of Liberty - Ellis Island Foundation has a database of passenger records. Search it to find family members who entered the United States through the famous port.
The Library of Congress offers local history and genealogy reference services. They can help you refine your research skills and find new sources.

U.S. Census Data and Statistics

The United States Census Bureau provides data about the nation’s people and economy. Every 10 years, it conducts the Population and Housing Census, in which every resident in the United States is counted. The agency also gathers data through more than 100 other surveys of households and businesses every one to five years. You can explore the results of the surveys or find popular quick facts.

The 2020 Census ended in October, 2020. Take a look back at the process.

How is data from the census used?

Your responses can help determine how much funding your local community will receive for public services. Census population data is used to divide the seats in the U.S. House of Representatives among the 50 states. It can also be used to draw boundaries for state legislative and school districts.

Besides using census data for the benefit of public services, you can also use it for genealogical research. To protect the privacy of people who respond to the U.S. Census, all records are kept confidential for 72 years. Find out what genealogical information is available and where you can access it.

What statistics can I get from the census?

Get population and demographic information about the country, individual states, and more:

View the latest QuickFacts statistics and estimates for the most popular topics.

Zoom in and sort census data with interactive maps.
See U.S. and world population estimates changing live with the Population Clock.
View age and sex data to understand population change over time.

How can I see the results of the census?

Explore a variety of data:

Examine data by community (such as city or ZIP code) across many different surveys.
Focus on the data and research from the 2010 Census.
Review all of the surveys and their data conducted by the Bureau:
- Surveys of households
- Surveys of businesses

Do I have to respond to the census?

By law, everyone is required to be counted in the census. If you don’t respond, the U.S. Census Bureau will follow up with you in person by visiting your home.