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Kasos Oral History Project Preserves Island's Unique Cultural Heritage
A research project on Kasos island is collecting oral histories and photographic archives from the 19th and 20th centuries to preserve the island's unique cultural heritage and fill gaps in written historical records.
- How does the use of maternal surnames in Kasos reflect broader societal changes and migration patterns?
- The project focuses on collecting oral histories from Kasos islanders from the 19th and 20th centuries, encompassing diverse themes such as seafaring, trade, conflicts, and customs, filling gaps in written historical records. The researchers are using interviews and photographic archives to reconstruct family histories and social structures.
- What specific impacts does this oral history project have on understanding the social and family structures of Kasos island?
- In November, on Kasos island, Nikos and Elias recounted the story of their great-grandfather, Elias Mavris, a former captain turned priest due to family pressure after many sailors were lost at sea. This oral history project by the Ionian University and the Institute of Mediterranean Studies aims to preserve such narratives.
- What are the long-term implications of this project for preserving and interpreting local histories, and what challenges remain in the process of data collection and analysis?
- The research reveals unique aspects of Kasos's social dynamics, including the significant role of women in household management, often using their maternal surname due to the frequent absence of seafaring men. The study also highlights the impact of migration and the complexities of identifying individuals across generations due to inconsistent surname usage.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The framing emphasizes the unique value and importance of preserving oral histories, which is understandable given the project's focus. However, this emphasis might unintentionally downplay the significance of written historical sources. The narrative structure prioritizes the emotional and personal stories, which could potentially overshadow the broader historical context and analysis.
Bias by Omission
The article focuses heavily on oral histories and traditions of Kasos island, potentially omitting other relevant historical documents or perspectives that could offer a more complete picture. While acknowledging the limitations of relying solely on oral accounts, the article doesn't explicitly mention what other sources might exist or why they weren't consulted. This could lead to an incomplete understanding of the island's history.
Sustainable Development Goals
The research project aims to preserve and highlight oral histories, contributing to a better understanding of the past and promoting social cohesion. The project directly addresses the importance of preserving cultural heritage and historical memory, which are crucial for building strong and peaceful societies. The documentation of historical events such as the 1824 Holocaust and the Italian occupation helps to understand the past and learn from it, contributing to conflict resolution and peacebuilding.