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An official number of people in a particular area. In addition to counting people, the census generally collects other information, which varies by era and region but often includes name, age, and occupation.
Papers or digital files that document birth, death and marriage. Example of vital records include birth certificates, marriage licenses, and adoption documentation.
A diagram that illustrates the relationships between people over several generations of a biological family.
There are many, many more terms specific to conducting genealogical research! Find a complete glossary at Ancestry.com.
Image courtesy of New York Public Library