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This session is in person
2026

Naming conventions in Independent Mexico, 19th to 21st century

Identifying a name is essential for successful genealogical research. The class will explore naming conventions and their evolution in Mexico since independence in 1810. We will start with an overview of the purpose, origin, history, and various types of surnames. We will examine contemporary surname structures and learn to recognize them, including special naming conventions for women. We will clarify what qualifies as a compound surname and what does not, while practicing the challenging skill of identifying them. Learning how naming conventions work and exploring naming options is crucial for identifying our target ancestor in genealogical research. The class will present real-life examples to enhance understanding. The syllabus features a chart detailing options for naming conventions from the 19th century onwards.

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