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Direct Ancestral Lineage Creator

Free online pedigree chart maker

Map your maternal and paternal bloodlines with mathematical clarity. Trace 4, 5, 6 or more generations of direct ancestors and export print-ready charts in seconds.

Direct Answer: A pedigree chart displays the direct biological ancestors of an individual in a branching horizontal format (2 parents, 4 grandparents, 8 great-grandparents). On Blaadline, you can build interactive pedigree charts or print blank templates as vector PDFs without registration.
Create your pedigree chartPedigree Chart FAQs

The Math of a Direct Pedigree Chart

Every generation doubles the number of direct ancestors. Blaadline keeps both sides aligned and prevents generational collisions.

3D isometric visualization of pedigree chart generational tiers
Direct biological pedigree: Symmetrical generational progression without collateral noise
Gen 1 & 2

1 + 2

You & Parents

Gen 3

4 Ancestors

Grandparents

Gen 4

8 Ancestors

Great-Grandparents

Gen 5

16 Ancestors

2nd Great-Grandparents

Built for genealogists who need direct lineage clarity

Pure Direct-Line Focus

Filter out sprawling collateral branches (siblings, cousins, in-laws) to focus exclusively on your maternal and paternal lineages.

4, 5, and 6+ Generations

Pedigree charts follow binary mathematical progression (2 parents, 4 grandparents, 8 great-grandparents, 16 second great-grandparents). Blaadline balances both sides automatically.

Instant Blank or Filled PDF

Export filled ancestral charts with vital dates and places, or print clean blank pedigree templates for field research and genealogy interviews.

Standard Ahnen numbering

Compatible with traditional Ahnentafel pedigree numbering where father is 2n and mother is 2n+1.

Pedigree Chart FAQs

What is a pedigree chart in genealogy?
A pedigree chart is a specific genealogical diagram that records only direct biological ancestors (parents, grandparents, great-grandparents) stemming back from one focal individual. Unlike a full family tree, it excludes siblings, aunts, uncles, and collateral relatives.
What is the difference between a pedigree chart and a family tree?
A pedigree chart is strictly ancestral and direct-line (parents, grandparents, great-grandparents). A comprehensive family tree includes all collateral lines, such as siblings, spouses, cousins, nieces, nephews, and descendants.
How many ancestors are on a 5-generation pedigree chart?
A 5-generation pedigree chart includes 31 individuals: the focal person (Generation 1), 2 parents (Gen 2), 4 grandparents (Gen 3), 8 great-grandparents (Gen 4), and 16 second great-grandparents (Gen 5).
Can I download a blank pedigree chart PDF to fill out by hand?
Yes. Blaadline lets you generate and print blank pedigree chart layouts directly to vector PDF, complete with empty fields for names, birth dates, marriage dates, and places.

Start charting your direct lineage today

Free forever in your browser. Export to vector PDF or import your existing GEDCOM file in seconds.

Open free pedigree builder