Famous historical figures you didn’t know were related
History is often a tapestry woven with unexpected threads, especially when it comes to familial connections. Imagine discovering that your favorite historical figure is linked to a modern celebrity.
These surprising family ties span continents and centuries, revealing that the past and present are more interconnected than we might think. Let’s dive into some of these fascinating genealogical discoveries and see how history’s giants are related to today’s icons.
The Royal Connection: Queen Elizabeth II and George Washington
The British monarchy and the founding of America seem worlds apart, yet Queen Elizabeth II and George Washington share a family connection. They were second cousins seven times removed on Elizabeth’s mother’s side.
This connection highlights how the roots of European royal families intertwine with the early history of the United States, offering a regal twist to the legacy of America’s first president.
Presidential Kin: Abraham Lincoln and Tom Hanks
Hollywood and history collide with the connection between Abraham Lincoln and Tom Hanks. The beloved actor is a third cousin, four times removed, to the 16th President of the United States.
This familial bond is traced through Lincoln’s mother, Nancy Hanks Lincoln, providing a glimpse into how entertainment and political history can sometimes share the same genealogical roots.
Literary Lines: Jane Austen and Anna Chancellor
In the literary world, Jane Austen’s wit and wisdom have captivated readers for generations. Interestingly, actress Anna Chancellor, known for her role in Four Weddings and a Funeral, is her eight-times-great-niece.
Chancellor’s familial ties to Austen add an intriguing layer to her portrayal of strong, independent women, perhaps a nod to Austen’s own characters and the legacy she left behind.
From Politics to TV: Franklin D. Roosevelt and Eleanor Roosevelt
Franklin D. Roosevelt and Eleanor Roosevelt were not just spouses and political partners; they were also fifth cousins, once removed. Their shared ancestry traces back to the 17th-century Dutch settlers of New York.
This familial relationship added another layer of complexity to their partnership, blending personal and political ties as they navigated some of the most challenging periods in American history together.
A Tale of Two Writers: Ernest Hemingway and Mariel Hemingway
The literary prowess of the Hemingway family is evident in Ernest Hemingway and his granddaughter, Mariel Hemingway. While Ernest’s novels are iconic, Mariel has made her mark as an actress and author.
Their shared lineage showcases how talent in storytelling can manifest across different mediums and generations, with Mariel continuing the Hemingway legacy in her unique way.
The Acting Gene: Humphrey Bogart and Princess Diana
The suave Humphrey Bogart and the beloved Princess Diana share a distant familial connection. Both descend from European nobility, with their lineage tracing back to English and Dutch ancestry.
This link between Hollywood royalty and actual royalty is a testament to how the allure of the spotlight can be hereditary, bridging the worlds of cinema and aristocracy.
The Presidential Pedigree: Theodore Roosevelt and Eleanor Roosevelt
Theodore Roosevelt and Eleanor Roosevelt, two influential figures in American history, were fifth cousins. Their shared lineage through the Roosevelt family of New York demonstrates the deep political roots and interconnections within American aristocracy.
This familial bond adds depth to their respective legacies, highlighting how shared heritage can influence paths of leadership and public service.
