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Identifying Military Uniforms in Photographs

Identifying Military Uniforms in Photographs

Military Uniforms in Photographs  To correctly identify military uniforms in photographs, it is necessary to read reference books and related websites about the particular branch of the military in its specific country during the correct historical time period. There are absolutely no rules about how a military designed its uniforms over time, although there are a few observations that can be made about military uniforms in general.   A country did not always automatically give uniforms to its military personnel. In some cases, a soldier or sailor had to supply his own uniform, as was done in the case of the Confederate Army during the U.S. Civil War. Uniforms, like other clothing during the early years of photography, were often handed down from father to son.   More often than not, the higher the rank of the individual, the more ornate the uniform was. The uniform almost always included headwear, so the style of the hat or helmet is a further indication of rank. The insignias worn on uniforms provide further information about the individual.  It’s easy to miss clues when viewing the photograph of an ancestor in military uniform. With our “Photography: Clues Pictures Hold, Editing, Digitizing and Various Projects” course you will learn more about locating and identifying some of those clues within your photographs.    

Course Registration

How do I register for a course?   Simply click Subscribe and complete the form. Make sure all information is complete and accurate then click the Submit button. You will receive a message confirming receipt of your registration.   When your course registration fee is received, your student Briefcase will be activated.  You will receive an email confirming your course registration and the start date for your courses.   You may register for as many courses as your wish. Your Student Login (email address and password) will allow you to access your Briefcase which contains your course information. You can access your student Briefcase by selecting Briefcase at the top menu toolbar and then My Briefcase. 

Newspapers Offer Insight

Valuable New Stories  Newspapers give us insight into life as it was during our ancestor’s time. While still driven by advertising, the newspapers of old often held more personal information than we find in today’s equivalent.   In addition to vital statistic type data you will find that historical newspapers also contain other genealogical relevant information including:   Local News – Depending on the size of the newspaper or the number of towns it covered, you may find that there are separate sections for townships or unincorporated towns near the larger city in which the newspaper is published.   Biographical Sketches and Historical Items – May times you will find biographical sketches of those who have been in a community for a long time. In some instances, the sketch comes as a result of the death of the individual, and as such it is important to remember that such information is sometimes flawed or not completely accurate.   Legal Notices – The courts have long used the newspaper to disperse information. Even today the newspaper is used to publish information from courts about pending cases, unpaid taxed, or attempts to notify heirs in a probate case.   Public Announcements – You will see announcements from individuals who are in essence declaring bankruptcy, by applying to the court for the “benefit of the Insolvent laws.”  Shipping and Business News – The newspapers in port towns would mention arrivals and other shipping news. This may prove useful in your research as you learn which ships arrived at the town or what they brought with them.  With our “US: Newspaper Records” course, you will learn more about all of the information you…

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How do I get a Certificate in Genealogical Studies?

So you want a Certificate in Genealogical Studies Upon successful completion of  40 courses in your Certificate Program and achieving a minimum grade of D, you will receive a Certificate in Genealogical Studies.   Students who complete a 40 course Certificate are awarded the postnomials PLCGS (Professional Learning Certificate in Genealogical Studies). Students must complete a 40 course certificate program to receive these postnomials. 

Why did you Trace Your Ancestors?

Why would you want to trace your ancestors? Well, there are a number of good reasons, but let’s face it, most people trace their ancestors for curiosity’s sake. Others trace their ancestors because they want to know about their different ethnic backgrounds. Others want to trace their roots simply for an increased understanding of just who they are and where they came from. Someone else may need proof of their heritage to gain special benefits from their government. Tracing your ancestors should not be considered a tedious task. Do not think it’s an overnight project either. It could be a worthwhile hobby that you find interesting and fulfilling. There are many reasons why you may want to research your roots, but whatever your reasons are you will find that, as time moves on, what started out as an interesting little hobby will become a  passion and you will enjoy every minute of it. With our Methodology-Part 1: Getting Started course you will receive the knowledge and steps moving forward in your adventure.