Ancestry testing has come a long way since its beginnings in the mid-20th century. Here's a brief overview of the history of ancestry testing:

1. Early beginnings: The first modern DNA test was developed in the 1980s, but the idea of using DNA to determine ancestry dates back much further. In the early 20th century, researchers used blood typing to try to determine the ancestry of different populations. However, these methods were limited in their accuracy and precision.

2. The development of modern DNA testing: In the 1980s, scientists developed a technique called polymerase chain reaction (PCR) that made it possible to amplify and analyze small amounts of DNA. This paved the way for the development of modern DNA tests, which use PCR and other techniques to analyze genetic markers in DNA.

3. The rise of commercial ancestry testing: In the late 1990s, several companies began offering commercial DNA testing services to the general public. These tests were initially marketed as a way to learn more about one's ancestry and ethnic origins, and they quickly became popular.

4. The expansion of DNA testing beyond ancestry: In the 21st century, DNA testing has expanded beyond ancestry testing to include a wide range of applications, such as identifying genetic health risks, informing treatment decisions, and even solving crimes.

Today, ancestry testing is more popular than ever, with millions of people around the world using DNA tests to learn more about their family history and ethnic origins. As DNA testing technology continues to evolve, it's likely that we will see even more exciting developments in the field of ancestry testing in the future.