Oral History (Volume 4)

Author: Wang Junyi, Ding Dong
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2006-05-01
Features: The content of this issue remains rich. Zhu Jiamu's speech at the founding conference of the Chinese Oral History Society fully affirms the importance of establishing Marxist oral history. He Zhaowu and Li Xiaojiang's articles discuss the popular and personalized characteristics of oral history, respectively. He Fang tells the story of Zhang Wentian's pioneering efforts in establishing diplomatic affairs for the People's Republic of China after its founding. Liang Peikuan reflects on his father, Liang Shuming, Mr. Liang's life pursuit and lifelong exploration of China's issues. The "Interview with Mr. Qi Gong" records Mr. Qi's recollections of the Beijing Painting Society during the Republican era before his death, a rare historical record. To define and position "oral history," the best name would be to borrow a term from traditional Chinese historical classics: "Real Records." "Oral history" should be strictly defined as an accurate record of the personal experiences (i.e., the narrators) rather than hearsay—truthful and factual. Authenticity is the soul of "oral history." This book records the historical events experienced by some elderly comrades during the 20th-century revolution, and these precious memories serve as the theme for the "oral history" to be created now.