[cardinal4]

I wonder if the Normans are sufficiently distinct genetically for us to determine what their genetic contribution has been to the average Englishman. Probably low because even though they were the conquerors and ruling class for centuries, there weren't very many of them.

That is true, however, both Henry I and II did their best populate the Isles. I believe Henry I had about 20 illegitimate kids. (I actually hate that term). I would like to see how Plantagenet DNA was dispersed..

[ek_hornbeck]

see how Plantagenet DNA was dispersed

When they dug up the remains of what is now thought to be Richard III, I remember the archaeologists using the DNA of a Canadian carpenter with Plantagent ancestry as a validation. So there must still be a lot of Plantagent blood around!