Elon Musk, founder of Tesla and SpaceX, has become one of the most influential people of the 21st century, driving innovation in a variety of fields. A major part of his success has been attributed to his unique background and biographical traits. An often asked question is regarding his ethnicity – is Elon Musk part African?
While there is no way to be certain, there appear to be a few points suggesting his heritage may have ties to the continent of Africa. First, Elon’s father, Errol Musk, is believed to have South African ancestry. Errol’s father, who was born in the United Kingdom, possibly has Dutch and French Huguenot ancestors. This could hint at a connection to African heritage, as intermarriage between European immigrants and native Africans was not uncommon.
Secondly, records of Errol’s relatives suggest that they are descended from African slaves who were brought to the Americas. A DNA test is said to have confirmed this ancestry in Errol’s father, and it could be assumed that it extends to Errol Musk, and indeed, to Elon.
Thirdly, Elon Musk and his father share distinct facial characteristics which are thought to be derived from Khoe-speaking African people. Khoisan, as this group is commonly known, are an ancient ethnic group whose populations are concentrated in Southern Africa.
Lastly, there is an interview Elon Musk gave, answering questions about his African heritage. During the interview, Musk seemed reluctant to elaborate on this subject, and so it is difficult to draw strong conclusions from his words. However, the interviewer noted that he “had a strong feeling” that Musk “has some African roots.”
Taking all this into consideration, it appears that Elon Musk may indeed have African heritage, though the exact amount is still unknown. His roots could extend all the way back to the earliest inhabitants of Southern Africa, the Khoe-speaking people, while he could also be somewhat related to African slaves brought to the Americas centuries ago.
Mongolian Ancestry
In addition to African ancestry, there is evidence that Elon Musk has ties to the continent of Asia, specifically Mongolia. Errol Musk, Elon’s father, is reported to have descended from Dutch settlers who migrated to South Africa from the Netherlands during the 1500s. Some members of the family moved on to Mongolia, where they adopted Mongolian surnames and blended into Asian culture. In one interview, Errol mentioned that he and his ancestors were of Dutch and potentially Asian origins.
Not surprisingly, Mongolian culture and customs had a profound effect on Elon’s upbringing. For example, Elon was exposed to traditional Mongolian music and literature, which he still values today. Additionally, he credits many of his successes to the Mongolian concept of ‘Geshou’ – labour over time to achieve something great. Elon once stated: “I wouldn’t be where I am today without the influence of Mongolian culture on my life.”
Unlike his African heritage, it is highly likely that Elon Musk has inherited some Mongolian genes. This is evidenced by his gray-green eyes, which are traditionally seen in Mongolian people. However, the exact nature of Elon’s Mongolian lineage is yet unknown, as the record of his ancestors’ journey from the Netherlands to Asia and back is incomplete.
Canadian Ancestry
Throughout his life, Musk has often mentioned his Canadian ancestry. He was born in Pretoria, South Africa, but moved to Canada in 1989, at age 17. He has since become a naturalised Canadian citizen, and often speaks fondly of his life in Ontario and Quebec.
Musk’s ancestry in Canada dates back to early settlers who arrived in the region in the 18th and 19th centuries. Many of his ancestors were of British, Irish and Scottish descent, and some of his relatives still live in Canada today.
Canadian culture has been very influential in Musk’s upbringing, particularly in his career. He is an avid supporter of Canadian businesses, investing in several innovative tech companies based in Ontario and Quebec. Additionally, Musk often speaks fondly of his Canadian heritage, citing it as a major driving force in his success.
In short, it seems clear that Elon Musk is partly of Canadian descent. His ancestral ties date back centuries, and they have had a strong influence on his life and work. However, it is not known exactly how much of Musk’s genes are of Canadian origin.
English Ancestry
Elon Musk’s family tree is inextricably linked to England – his father, Errol, was born in England, and many of Musk’s ancestors were born in the English county of Devon. Musk’s book, “Elon Musk: From Here to the Future,” gives an insight into his English heritage and offers a deep dive into how his roots have impacted his life.
England has had an enormous influence on Musk’s life and career. For example, he has cited the likes of Charles Darwin, Francis Bacon, and Isaac Newton as his inspirations. Additionally, he attended college in England, earning a degree in physics from the University of Surrey.
Genetically, it is likely that Musk carries some English ancestry, though this cannot be confirmed. England has heavily influenced Musk’s life and career, and it appears that this connection will remain strong for years to come.
American Ancestry
Musk has been an American citizen since 2002. Before he moved to the United States, Elon Musk studied business and economics at the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia. He was motivated to pursue success in the business world and has subsequently become one of the most influential businessmen of our time.
A major part of the American Dream which has undoubtedly shaped his success is his family’s American roots. Musk’s great-grandfather James Musk was born in Michigan in the 1890s and eventually moved to Canada to lead a successful business. It is likely that his descendants, including Elon Musk, inherited some of his American genes.
James Musk’s impact on Elon’s life is arguably immense — he was the one who gave Elon an insight into the business world when he was a young adult. Today, Musk remains a success story in the United States, and it appears likely that his American roots have something to do with it.
