The DNA profile of the Taira
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The DNA of the Taira
The Taira, also known as the Heike, was a powerful samurai caste that played a dominant role in the political and military life of Japan during the Heian period (794-1185 AD). The Taira were known for their military prowess and enormous influence during this important era in Japanese history. In particular, their achievements and their clash with the Minamoto clan in the Gempei War (1180-1185 AD) strongly influenced the further development of Japanese society.
During the Taira period, most samurai warriors were from the lower nobility, but the Taira had traced their ancestry to Emperor Kanmu (737-806 AD) and were highly respected in the imperial city. They were established enough to marry their daughters to emperors and to be regents or prime ministers themselves.
The members of the Taira can be traced back to two main tribes, one of which adopted the name "Taira" as its family name. These tribes were Taira no Kinhira and Taira no Takamochi. From the lineage of Taira no Takamochi came the most famous samurai of the Taira family, Taira no Kiyomori. Kiyomori is known for consolidating the power of the Taira at the height of their influence. It was he who led the Gempei War against the rival Minamoto clan, which then led to the defeat and end of the Taira family.
Taira no Kiyomori pursued an aggressive foreign policy and increased contacts with China and Korea, which ultimately improved trade routes between Japan and these countries. He used this to strengthen his own policies and to secure Taira's economic power.
Despite their defeat in the Gempei War, the Taira continue to live on in Japanese culture and history. They are the main characters in many classical Japanese works such as "Heike Monogatari" (The Tale of Heike), which depicts their exploits and tragic demise. Taira are also present within traditional Japanese music and in Noh plays. Thus they remain alive in the collective memory of the Japanese people and are emblematic of the values of samurai culture - courage, honor and loyalty, but also of the pride that sometimes leads to tragedy.
In the end, the Taira were one of the most influential samurai families in Japanese history. Their rise to power and their dramatic fall greatly shaped the cultural and political developments of Japan during the Heian period. Their history is closely intertwined with the development of the country and their identity as a warrior caste.
The Taira belong to haplogroup D1 in the paternal line.
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Questions and answers about the DNA test
How long does a DNA origin analysis take?
After we have received the samples it normally takes 6-8 weeks for the fist results. Depending on the chosen test the result is thus already fully ready or further analysis are done.
How can I order a DNA origin analysis for someone else?
If you order and pay for a test set for somebody else online, the address of the other person under “Comments”. We will then send the collection kit to the address of this person. You can also place your order by phone or e-mail.
This is how the DNA origin analysis works
A Mucus Sample suffices to get a sample of your DNA. Taking the sample is simple and painless and can be done at home. Send the samples with the envelop included in the sampling kit.
by telephone, e-mail or on the website
delivery takes a few days
at home, simple and painless
with the enclosed envelope
online after approx. 6 - 8 weeks