What is oral history and why is it important?

What is oral history and why is it important?

Oral history is the collection and study of historical information using audio recordings of interviews with people having personal knowledge of past events. It's important because it preserves diverse perspectives and experiences that might not be captured in written records.

Can you give me some examples of oral history projects?

Sure! Examples include the StoryCorps project in the U.S., which records personal stories, and the Shoah Foundation, which archives testimonies of Holocaust survivors.

How can I start my own oral history project?

To start your own oral history project, identify a theme or community, gather recording equipment, prepare interview questions, and begin conducting interviews with participants.

What challenges might I face in conducting oral history interviews?

Challenges can include gaining trust from interviewees, dealing with sensitive topics, ensuring accurate recordings, and managing the logistics of interviews.