Greek Genealogy



A multifaceted culture, the Greeks have evolved over centuries. During that time their art, music, architecture, literature, religion, science and philosophy have also advanced and had an immerse effect on other people and cultures.

While examining Greek genealogy, it can start with the classic Greek civilization then progress to Hellenistic and Byzantine Greek and eventually modern Greek. Each of those periods in history had their own contributions to the culture and to other regions of the world.

Being along the Mediterranean Sea, the Greek people have close ties with the sea. They have an olive complexion with usually brown or black hair and brown eyes.

The Greek language has the longest documented history of any Indo-European language, spanning 34 centuries of written records. Many modern languages are actually based on Greek words. With some 11.3 million people in the nation of Greece, 95 percent speak Greek. Minority languages are spoken mostly along the northern borders. The island of Cyprus is all Greek populated.

During the 20th century, studying Greek genealogy, is seen millions of Greeks who migrated to other countries for economic reasons. Large communities of Greeks, about 1.3 million, live in different states within the United States. Others have moved to Great Britain, Canada, Germany and Australia. The Greek Orthodox faith, a Christian religion, is the main religion of Greek people, no matter where they live.

Greek characteristics are that the people are loyal and protective to each other. They would not want to be dishonored. Greeks value group unity and harmony rather than individual success and glory. A tight family bond is very important as well as relationships with the extended family members.

Cooperation with neighbors, friends or the townspeople is valued, they never exhibit selflessness. The people are highly collaborative and not competitive with each other.

The Greek prefer stable work and career paths that provide job security and retirement. Being loyal and sticking with one job for a life time is most common. There is a high degree of tradition; knowing what was acceptable to one’s ancestors is good for their descendants.

Greek mythology and folklore is evident in how Greeks believe, think and act, an important element in Greek genealogy. A Greek hero or heroine is an eminent character who embodies key traits valued by the Greek culture. The hero commonly possesses superhuman capabilities or idealized character traits which enable them to perform extraordinary, beneficial or heroic deeds.

Food for the Greeks is a Mediterranean diet. They use many favors and spices to season a dish. The use of olive oil, lamb and cheese are key ingredients. Greek folk music and dancing is entertainment for the people, along with the traditional Olympic sports.

< Return To Culture