The Oral Tradition

Oral tradition refers to the practice of passing stories, history, beliefs, and knowledge verbally from generation to generation. Before writing systems, communities relied on spoken word to preserve their culture, history, and values. This transmission type emphasizes storytelling, songs, rituals, and oral recordings, enabling shared identity and continuity. While it can be less precise than written records, oral tradition remains vital for understanding how societies have preserved their sense of identity and history across ages. It highlights the dynamic and living nature of cultural transmission, adapting as communities evolve.