Oral History Framework

The use of oral sources features prominently amongst the critical developments in the South African historiography during the twentieth century. This development permeated from academy to public institutions and sites of memory such as museums, archives, libraries, heritage institutions, etc. 

Oral history in South Africa is broadly categorized within the realm of living tradition. Sometimes this is referred to as living heritage or oral traditions. It has become a transformational mechanism through which past imbalances are addressed, as well as a therapeutical mechanism to deal with South Africa's turbulent past.

Videos of the oral history recordings are gradually being published online. Click here to view to the videos.

Please read the latest news updates about this initiative. You can also read the Oral History Framework of the Western Cape.

The Department of Cultural Affairs and Sport (DCAS) continues to support communities to capture and preserve their previously untold stories. Communities should support this initiative and keep their history alive by retelling it. Let us tell and preserve our country’s history for all community members.