Oral Tradition as History

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Jan Vansina’s 1961 book, Oral Tradition, is a seminal work in ethno-history, originally published in French and later translated into multiple languages. It received widespread acclaim for its rigorous functional analysis of oral traditions. Now, with two decades of further research, Vansina has substantially revised his original work, rewriting sections and adding new material, resulting in a new text essential for students and scholars in history, anthropology, folklore, and ethno-history interested in oral material's transmission and uses. Those engaging in historical fieldwork with oral communities will find it a valuable resource, offering practical advice. Researchers with existing collections of oral material, or those interpreting others' work, will be prompted to critically reassess their methodologies in light of Vansina’s insightful perspectives. This revised edition not only enhances the understanding of oral traditions but also serves as a crucial contribution to the literature on African history, reaffirming its importance in the academic discourse.