For most of human history, this was done through oral tradition. If you've ever read the Bible you've read many genealogy accounts, such as in the fifth chapter of Genesis, which is where the Hebrews' descent from Adam is given. For many centuries the Biblical traditions were kept orally. In modern history, when man started keeping written records, genealogy changed from oral tradition to records. What was once reserved for little blue-haired ladies who wanted to join patriotic societies is now the third most popular hobby in the United States.
Genealogy is no longer the collection of names and dates, but rather a history of people.
I think of my family as a story. Every good story has a beginning, a middle and an end. My story starts with the middle, with myself and my husband. By coming together, we joined our families. We are the middle and everyone before and after us is connected through us.