The phrase "was related" refers to the past tense of the verb "to relate," which means to establish a connection, association, or link between two or more things. In this context, it generally implies that there existed some form of connection, often a familial or genealogical one, between two individuals or groups in the past.
When someone or something "was related" to someone or something else, it suggests that they shared a common ancestry, descended from the same lineage, or were connected through marriage or blood relations. This connection can be traced back to a previous generation or even further back in history. The relationship could be between people within the same family or extended family, such as siblings, cousins, or more distant relatives.
The phrase can also be used in a broader sense to describe connections beyond familial relationships. For example, it could indicate a familial connection between two organizations or companies, a relationship between historical events, or the connection between various aspects within a particular field of study or research.
Overall, the term "was related" serves to convey that a connection or association existed in the past, often involving familial ties, shared ancestry, or interrelatedness between individuals, groups, events, or entities.