Oral history involves collecting first-hand accounts from individuals who experienced significant events, serving as a valuable primary source for understanding context and emotions tied to historical moments. The document discusses the importance of oral history in preserving community narratives, while also addressing challenges such as accuracy and bias in personal recollections. Various examples illustrate the process and impact of oral histories conducted in different contexts, including Itasca State Park and Los Alamos, emphasizing their role in providing diverse perspectives often overlooked in traditional historical accounts.