Double Helix History: Genetics and the Past

Illustrates the ways in which DNA and history are intertwined in the popular imagination, and what this means for our understanding of our relationship to the past. It provides the reader with a clear sense of the importance DNA now has in understanding many historical interpretations.

DNA testing and use is of increasing importance and visibility, being engaged with through organisations including Ancestry.com at an increasing level. There is a high increase of focus on the subject meaning that there is a real gap in the market that this books fills.

The book is unique in its analysis of history and genetics through a variety of topics including popular culture, poetry and genealogy. The author Jerome de Groot is an ideal person to explore this timely topic having engaged with public perceptions of history in his work.