When you need to split a subdirectory from a larger repository while keeping its commit history, Git Subtree Split is a simple built-in solution.

  1. Update Your Local Repository

Before starting, ensure your repository is up-to-date. If you have any pending changes, commit them and pull the latest updates:

git pull origin main

(Replace main with your branch name if needed.)

  1. Create a New Branch for the Subdirectory

Use the subtree split command to extract your subdirectory (e.g., WizzadPlus2022) into a new branch:

git subtree split --prefix=WizzadPlus2022 -b wizzadplus2022-only
  • --prefix=WizzadPlus2022: Specifies the directory to extract.
  • -b wizzadplus2022-only: Creates a new branch containing only the commits affecting that directory.
  1. Set Up a New Repository

Create a new, empty repository on your favorite Git hosting service (GitHub, GitLab, etc.). Note the repository URL (e.g., git@github.com:yourUsername/WizzadPlus2022.git).

  1. Push the New Branch to the New Repository

Add the new remote and push your branch:

git remote add wizzadplus2022 <NEW_REPO_URL>
git push wizzadplus2022 wizzadplus2022-only:main

This command pushes your new branch as the main branch in the new repository.