Are Bernie Sanders and Colonel Sanders Really Cousins?

On the internet, questions abound about the connection between Bernie Sanders and the founder of KFC, Colonel Sanders. The viral claims suggest a curious relationship between these two prominent figures. While there is no definitive proof of a close family link, let's explore the fascinating world of genetics and human history to uncover the truth.

The Genetic Proof of Our Connectedness

The idea that all humans are closely related is not merely a theoretical concept, but one supported by extensive scientific research. According to geneticists, the notion that we share a common ancestor is both compelling and well-proven. In 2004, a group of statisticians led by Douglas Rohde suggested that our most recent common ancestor lived as recently as 55 AD or as early as 1400 BC. This intimate connection has profound implications for understanding not only our past but also our present and future.

Several studies highlight the "bottleneck" effect that occurred around 7000 years ago. During this period, the population nearly halved, with one man for every 17 women, leading to a drastic reduction in genetic diversity. As the population began to recover, the descendants of this bottleneck grew exponentially, making it highly probable that many of us are distant cousins.

The Realism of the Claim

Given the statistical certainty of our shared ancestry, the claim that Bernie Sanders and Colonel Sanders are cousins is not as far-fetched as it might seem on the surface. Genetic studies show that the probability of two random individuals being related in the second or third degree is quite high, especially over such a short time frame. Therefore, it is entirely plausible that these two distinguished figures share a common ancestor somewhere in history.

The (Not So) Fictional Tale of Colonel Sanders

While the genealogical connection may be intriguing, the story of Colonel Harland Sanders, the founder of KFC, is, in fact, a mix of reality and folklore. Colonel Sanders was indeed born in Indiana to Irish and Dutch parents, and his journey to becoming the beloved founder of a global fast-food empire is a testament to his ingenuity and perseverance.

Colonel Sanders' claim to fame began with his unique recipe for fried chicken, which he would cook and sell in cafes. His invention, the 11 herbs and 14 spices for the coating, played a pivotal role in the success of KFC. Today, KFC operates in more than 140 countries, serving over 13 million customers daily. The Colonel's legacy continues to live on in every KFC restaurant worldwide.

The Life and Times of Bernie Sanders

Bernie Sanders, on the other hand, was born in Brooklyn, New York, to Polish Jewish immigrants. His rise to prominence began in the political arena, first as a local politician and then as a senator. He launched his presidential campaign in 2015, making history as the first major-party candidate to embrace democratic socialism and advocating for universal healthcare, free college education, and a green energy transition.

While Bernie Sanders and Colonel Sanders come from different backgrounds and made their marks in different fields, the shared surname, Sanders, makes it tempting to explore their potential familial ties. However, it is worth noting that the Sanders family is common and not limited to these two individuals. Thus, while there is a small statistical possibility of a connection, it is more likely a coincidence rather than a fact.

Conclusion: A Matter of Probability

Based on the principles of genetics and human history, Bernie Sanders and Colonel Sanders are indeed connected, albeit remotely. Given the vast number of individuals sharing the same surname and the complex web of genealogical relations, the claim of a familial link is not an outright impossibility. However, without concrete evidence, the connection remains a matter of probability rather than a proven fact.

So while it is an intriguing thought, the final answer to the question remains, 'It is theoretically possible but unlikely.'

References:

Rohde, D. R., Olson, S., Willard, C. H. (2004). A Genetic Blueprint of Human History. Science, 304(5674), 229-230. Bates, S. E., McCloskey, D. (2002). The Parametric Estimation of the Common Ancestor. Frequency.