African American genealogy requires the study of the slave and the slave holding family.  Prior to emancipation in 1865, most African Americans were property and their lives are documented in the wills, estates, inventories, account books and deeds of their owners.  Researching your enslaved ancestors can be quite a challenge but it is definitely possible.  For tips on researching your enslaved ancestors check out http://www.slavegenealogy.com.   After emancipation, information on your African American ancestors can be found in birth, death, marriage and U.S. Federal Census records.  To learn more about check out the Articles and Resources section.