About Edgar
Edgar Ziadeh, the founder of our genealogical research firm, specializes in tracing the ancestors of individuals through meticulous research of Ottoman records. With a PhD in History, Edgar has collaborated with various state archives for the digitalization, indexation, and translation of Ottoman records. His passion for history and genealogy has been a lifelong pursuit, beginning in his teenage years, and he is dedicated to helping others uncover their familial stories and understand their heritage deeply. In addition to his research work, Edgar has taught at multiple universities in Lebanon and also engages in community workshops and seminars, striving to educate individuals on how to research their family trees and navigate the often-complex landscape of historical records.
This project, which began in 2011, was initially launched with the purpose of conducting ancestral research for people of Middle Eastern descent. After years of translation and indexing work, records for most other areas of the Ottoman Empire have been made available to the team for research purposes. Over the years, the project has grown in scope and ambition, now aiming to include not only genealogical research but also a comprehensive archive documenting cultural histories and personal stories from various familial backgrounds, thereby enriching the narrative surrounding the Ottoman Empire and its diverse populations. This expansion reflects a commitment to not just research, but to also bringing the stories of the past to life, making them accessible to future generations.
My family history
My ancestors come from humble beginnings in Keserwan, Mount Lebanon. Our family name, Ziadeh, was first adopted in the middle of the 16th century, as shown in Ottoman tax records; most of the people in the region were farmers, stone workers, and carpenters, who toiled hard to make a living in a landscape that was both beautiful and challenging. It remained that way until the 19th century, during which another wave of migrations occurred in the Levant. This was a time of great upheaval and transformation, as many sought better opportunities for their families. My ancestors started to get formal education with the arrival of European Jesuits, whose influence was profound and far-reaching, opening the door to more occupations in the family and improving their social standing.
This educational advancement ultimately led my grandfather George Ziadeh to settle in Latin America for decades, where he ran various companies in the rubber & coffee industries, navigating the complexities of international trade and local economies, before returning to Lebanon. My great grandfather, Hanna Ziadeh, was the uncle of the renowned Lebanese poet May Ziadeh, who became a significant figure in Arabic literature and is celebrated for her contributions to feminism and cultural critique. The legacy of my family, therefore, is intertwined with both the struggles of our ancestors and the successes that followed, reflecting a rich history that spans continents and generations.
Growing up learning about my family's history, I have always been interested in the family history of others; as a professional genealogist, my goal is to make sure everyone with ancestors from the Ottoman Empire can get to know who their ancestors were.
