History1301 Essay 2 - Oral History and Historical Memory

History1301 Essay 2

Research Option #2: Oral History and Historical Memory

General Overview: You will read two historical personal account in relation to life in the past or tied to a specific historical event.  Then your research will compare these personal accounts with the "factual" or "documented" history of the era, the proceed to compare the personal account against the historical record; and then analyze the value of oral history in enriching our understanding the historical period/event.  

Examples: The testimonies of Paul Revere and Gen. Thomas Gage on the Battles of Lexington and Concord; Diaries of factory workers in Lowell, Massachusetts; Journals of migrants moving westward on the Oregon and/or Overland Trails; Narratives of slaves and their experiences, etc.

Research Objectives & Questions to be Discussed in Your Essay:

· What was the personal background of the two individuals you chose?

· How are the individuals specifically tied to the specific historical event?

· What are the similarities and differences in the accounts of the individuals?

· What elements in their narratives do you feel influenced (if it applies) they way we teach/learn that history today?

· How do you feel personal accounts either enhance or possibly detract from our understanding of the historical past?