Examines the dynamic and growing use of oral history in documenting the various social and political movements of the 1960s. Discusses those historical analyses and approaches particularly well served by oral history. Notes a decline in oral history in some areas due to logistical and funding difficulties. (MJP)

Provides a fascinating look at the ideological and cultural schisms that developed between the communist party and local trade unions in Schenectady, New York. By the 1950s trade unions had become more conservative while the communist party championed the rights of women and blacks. This split debilitated the communist party. (MJP)

Recounts the battle over the first attempt in U.S. history to implement sex education in a citywide system of public schools. Frames this conflict as part of an ongoing collision between progressive, social science-oriented reformers and a traditionalist populace. Discusses the reform movement's shift from moral to scientific authority. (MJP)

Presents an excellent summation of the controversy over the Smithsonian's Enola Gay exhibit. Delineates the preparation of the exhibit, nature and origins of the objections raised, subsequent revisions in the text, and the decision to cancel the exhibit. Includes textual passages from the most disputed sections of the exhibit. (MJP)

Argues that the objections raised to the Enola Gay exhibit are rooted in Cold War politics. Maintains that this historical myopia exemplifies the need for challenging historical inquiry. Characterizes opposition to the exhibit as largely political and discusses demands made to censor exhibit material. (MJP)

Recounts the early efforts (circa 1970) of feminists to collect oral histories of women around the western United States. Supported primarily through universities, the historians collected material from ranch women, labor activists, Native Americans, Asian immigrants, Hispanic homemakers, and others. Discusses developments in oral history…

Defends the original script, historical interpretation, and inception of "The Last Act" (the Enola Gay Exhibit). Articulates the purpose of the exhibit as a thought-provoking examination, rather than historical revisionism. Maintains that critics failed to consider the exhibit as a whole. Includes a two-page chronology of the…

Outlines major oral history collections related to media studies and considers how the use of those collections has encouraged traditional conceptions of the social function of the press. Suggests how oral histories can be used to address issues of power and domination in the development of media institutions. (MJP)