Oral Tradition as Source of Construction of History of Pre Literate Societies

Abstract

Oral traditions are considered as a reliable source of historical writing. It represents collective experience and wisdom. But oral tradition is largely anonymous. It imperceptibly absorbs what comes from many sources—individuals, inside groups, and outside groups. In any society, oral tradition has the function of supporting the political structure, economic systems, religious aspects and the social and cultural moves of the group. The knowledge and experience of elders and lessons learned by several generations through experience are crystallized into it. In this paper, an attempt is made to analyse the importance of oral tradition, its elements and various aspects in association with utilization of oral tradition as important source material for the reconstruction of history. Paper also emphasize the need of carefulness and patience on the part of historian while using the facts and should go in to deep the roots of the oral tradition in order to ensure that the facts collected and gathered are authentic and genuine.