What establishes the title history of a property through public records?

The chain of title is the correct answer because it refers specifically to the historical record of ownership of a property, detailing every transfer of title over the years. This concept is critical in real estate as it establishes who holds legal title to a piece of property and outlines the sequence of transfers, providing a complete history that can be traced through public records.

A title deed represents the legal document that signifies ownership of the property but does not reflect the entire historical context or prior ownerships. The property index, while useful for locating properties and their details, does not establish the chronology of ownership itself. Conveyance records encompass the legal documents related to the transfer of property but do not specifically detail the entire ownership history like a chain of title does.

The chain of title is paramount in ensuring that the property being conveyed is free from claims and defects, thereby offering reassurance to prospective buyers.