The Oral History Reader

The Oral History Reader is a comprehensive, international anthology combining major ‘classic’ articles with cutting edge pieces on the theory, method and use of oral history. Including twenty-eight new chapters published since the third edition of the Reader, this edition introduces the most significant developments in oral history bringing this invaluable text up to date. Reflecting the global reach of oral history, the Reader not only includes a strong selection of writings from North America, Britain and Australasia, but also authors from continental Europe, Latin America, Africa and Asia.

Arranged in five thematic sections, each with an introduction by the editors to contextualise the selection and review relevant literature, the chapters draw upon diverse oral history experiences to examine issues including:

• First-hand reflections on alternative approaches to recording oral histories, and issues posed by the oral history relationship

• The nature of memory and its significance in oral history

• Practical and ethical issues in the interpretation, presentation and public use of oral testimonies

• How oral history projects involve diverse communities and contribute to research and understanding about the past

• The challenge and contributions of oral history projects committed to advocacy and empowerment.

• Artificial intelligence and innovative digital technologies, indigenous and decolonised oral history, climate crises and environmental history, trauma, danger and ethics, the afterlives of violence, and remote interviewing.

With a revised and updated bibliography and useful contacts list, as well as a dedicated online resource page, this fourth edition of The Oral History Reader is the perfect tool for those encountering oral history for the first time as well as for seasoned practitioners.