By establishing this DNA database of Ralls/Rawls/Rawles/Rowls/Rowles lines, we hope to: a) identify and categorize DNA-based lineage clusters of this surname; b) better understand how the different lineages interrelate; c) better understand the origins and evolution of the different lineages; d) assist current and future genealogists with their research on this general surname; e) provide baseline data that can be compared to families of this surname worldwide, thereby allowing future research efforts to be more narrowly focused; and f) provide a repository of DNA material that can be further analyzed as technology improves.