The Search for Generational Memory

Hareven, Tamara K.

Essay describing the popularity of American search efforts for "generational memory" - or the shape of one's personal and social origins - through genealogy, oral history, and the new social history movement of the middle twentieth century. Uses the example of Alex Haley's 1976 book, "Roots," as an influence on such popular efforts, and an instance of American historical and cultural identity-searching whose precedents can be traced to the beginning of the twentieth century. Exposition on the craft of oral history and the type of knowledge it generates. Written by the author of "Amoskeag: Life and Work in an American Factory-City" (1978), which focuses on the Amoskeag Mills of Manchester, New Hampshire and its workers.

1992

en

Book Section

20th century; United States