Oral historiography and the history of technology in Nigeria: problems and prospects

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Periodical article

Title:	Oral historiography and the history of technology in Nigeria: problems and prospects
Author:	Thomas-Emeagwali, G.
Year:	1988
Periodical:	Muntu: revue scientifique et culturelle du CICIBA
Issue:	8
Pages:	65-73
Language:	English
Geographic term:	Nigeria
Subjects:	technology oral history
Abstract:	Despite the significance of the history of technology there is a relative dearth of writings on the issue in the case of Nigeria. Part of the problem lies with the lack of written sources for earlier historical periods. The historian must fall back on oral sources, namely myths, legends, anecdotes, proverbs, and interviews, in conjunction with archaeological analysis where possible. Oral historiography remains in several cases the major hope for historical reconstruction of technological development, despite the problems involved: the general reluctance of practitioners to divulge technological secrets and quantitative output, the question of the periodization and chronology of techniques and skills, and the frequent unawareness of the precise scientific and engineering principles involved in certain techniques. Some of the areas in need of research in the field of the history of technology in Nigeria in which oral historiography can play an important role include textile production, basketry, woodwork, and traditional medicine. Notes, ref., sum. in English, French, Spanish and Portuguese.