Black genealogy, like genealogy for any group, can present unique challenges due to historical factors such as slavery, migration, and systemic discrimination. Some of the hardest parts of black genealogy include:

1. **Lack of Documentation**: Many records pertaining to enslaved individuals were either not kept or were destroyed over time. This makes it difficult to trace ancestry beyond a certain point, often reaching a brick wall.

2. **Name Changes**: Enslaved individuals often had their names changed by slaveholders, making it difficult to trace lineage before and after emancipation. Surnames may have been changed multiple times due to various factors such as ownership changes, marriages, or personal choice.

3. **Fragmented Family Structures**: Enslaved families were frequently separated through sale or forced migration, resulting in fragmented family structures. Reuniting family branches can be challenging due to the lack of documentation and the dispersion of family members.

4. **Limited Access to Records**: Access to historical records can be limited, particularly for African Americans whose ancestors were enslaved. Many records are held by government agencies, churches, or private institutions, and access may be restricted or records may not exist at all.

5. **Racial Passing**: Some individuals in black families historically chose to "pass" as white due to social, economic, or legal pressures. This can lead to hidden or erased family histories, complicating genealogical research.

6. **Shifting Geographic Boundaries**: Migration patterns among African Americans have been influenced by factors such as the Great Migration, urbanization, and gentrification. Tracking family movements across different regions and time periods can be challenging.

7. **DNA Testing Limitations**: While DNA testing can provide valuable insights into ancestry, it has limitations, especially for individuals of African descent. African Americans often have diverse genetic backgrounds due to the transatlantic slave trade, making it difficult to pinpoint specific geographic origins.

8. **Interconnected Family Networks**: African American genealogy often involves tracing interconnected family networks within communities, rather than focusing solely on direct lineages. Understanding these broader social networks is essential for accurate genealogical research.

Despite these challenges, advancements in genealogical research methods, the digitization of records, and the growing availability of DNA testing are helping to make black genealogy more accessible than ever before. Additionally, community-based initiatives and resources specifically tailored to African American genealogy can provide invaluable support and guidance.