The 10 Million Names Project

Dedicated to recovering the names of the estimated ten million men, women, and children of African descent who were enslaved.

In pre- and post-colonial America (specifically, the territory that would become the United States) between the 1500s and 1865, millions of enslaved people lived on plantations, private homes, and universities. 10 Million Names is engaging a collaborative network of expert genealogists, cultural organizations, and community-based family historians. Together they are amplifying the voices of people who have been telling their family stories for centuries.

Part of the 10 Million Names project is an ancestry database that the public can access, add information to, and use as a research tool. The project helps connect researchers and data partners with people seeking answers to family history questions, and provides access to data, resources, and information about enslaved African Americans.

An affiliate of American Ancestors, the site includes links to databases and census reports, as well as links to other resources for those interested in genealogy. Often categorized by state, you can find stories, research, and links to numerous sites. 10 Million Names also provides free charts and templates to help you create a family tree.

Alex Presha speaks with 10 Million Names historians Dr. Kendra Field and Dr. Vincent Brown who examine rare and historic audio interviews with formerly enslaved individuals recorded in the 1940s and 70s.

For more information, please visit 10millionnames.org.