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Genealogy vs Family History:

Genealogy is the study of the descents of persons or families from an ancestor or ancestors. Many people out of interest in their personal and family origins undertake this study.

As a hobby it can become pleasantly addictive, at least to the person concerned (Don't ask my wife for her opinion!!). However the study is also undertaken professionally, not just in order to provide a commercial service that can be used by people who are seeking help in researching their origins, but also for legal and financial reasons. Thus there are accepted standards for doing genealogy properly - standards that we here at Family History UK recommend you seek to learn and emulate.

The term Family History used to be regarded as synonymous with Genealogy, but now it applies to biographical research into one's ancestors - the aim typically being to produce a well-documented narrative history, of interest to family members and future generations.

Thus the study of family history involves putting "flesh on the bones" that is produced by genealogy - and involves the study of the historical circumstances and geographical situations in which our ancestors lived.

Putting "flesh on the bones" entails adding information not only on their Birth, Marriage and Death (BMD), but also their employment history, military service (details of battles, medals etc..) their hobbies, their diaries (if not too personal!), where they had lived through their life, the house history, maps etc. So lets not just go for dates - add "flesh to the bones", its addictive!!