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On April 13, 2005, the National Geographic Society launched the Genographic Project. Founded by National Geographic Explorer-in-Residence Spencer Wells, the Genographic Project is a nonprofit research project aimed at answering questions about human population and migration. Where did we come from? Who did we come from? How did we get where we are? Who are we?Anyone in the world can participate in the Genographic Project—one of its major components is gathering DNA samples from indigenous and traditional peoples as well as the general public. Using the DNA from a simple cheek swab and a complex computer analysis, the Genographic Project is able to create the world’s largest migration map, showing how humans populated the planet.
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Term Part of Speech Definition Encyclopedic Entry anthropology Noun science of the origin, development, and culture of human beings.
Encyclopedic Entry: anthropology component Noun part.
database Noun a collection of information for analysis and interpretation.
DNA Noun (deoxyribonucleic acid) molecule in every living organism that contains specific genetic information on that organism.
Explorer-in-Residence Noun pre-eminent explorers and scientists collaborating with the National Geographic Society to make groundbreaking discoveries that generate critical scientific information, conservation-related initiatives and compelling stories.
genetic Adjective having to do with genes, inherited characteristics or heredity.
Genographic Project Noun National Geographic project that uses genealogy to trace the migratory history of the human species.
indigenous Adjective characteristic to or of a specific place.
Encyclopedic Entry: indigenous migration Noun movement of a group of people or animals from one place to another.
National Geographic Society Noun (1888) organization whose mission is "Inspiring people to care about the planet."
nonprofit organization Noun business that uses surplus funds to pursue its goals, not to make money.
public Noun people of a community.
research Noun scientific observations and investigation into a subject, usually following the scientific method: observation, hypothesis, prediction, experimentation, analysis, and conclusion.