Unit 1: HISTORICAL SOURCES
Key Unit Competence:
To be able to analyze and critique historical sources of information
Mutesi is a History teacher in Senior one at Groupe Scolaire Musumba.
At the beginning of the new school year 2023-2024. While she was
introducing a new lesson, she invited her students to tell her different
ways through which they can be informed about the past of their
ancestors. If you had been one of her students, what answers would
you have given to her. Add what you think can be the importance ofstudying History
1.1 Definition and different sources of History
Definition
Using the history books, internet and a dictionary make research on
the definition of the term “History” and different sources of Historical
information
Sources of History
The Sources of Historical information include the following:
(i) Oral tradition
(ii) Written sources
(iii) Electronic sources (Audio-visual sources)
(iv) Archaeology
(v) Linguistics
(vi)Anthropology
(vii )Genetics
Each of these sources of historical information has been discussed below
Each of these sources of historical information has been discussed below
(i) Oral tradition
That process of telling information by word of mouth is called oral tradition.
It is one method of collecting historical information.
Oral tradition is defined as any information passed by word of mouth
Oral tradition is defined as any information passed by word of mouth
(verbally) from one generation to another. This is done through
socialisation especially between the young and the old.
Oral traditions may be in form of songs, stories, legends, poems, folktales
and proverbs of people’s past. It is based on eyewitness accounts about
an event.
Oral traditions are transmitted mostly by traditionalists, old men and
old women. These people have a wide knowledge in history of their
societies in different areas of life including politics, economics, medicine,
administration, technology, culture, etc.
(ii) Written sourcesWritten sources are the information related to the past recorded by
writing in form of letters, words or other written symbols found in books,
diaries, newspapers, magazines, journals, non-published documents,
letters, magazines, journals, inscriptions on coins and newspapers among
others. These written documents are often found in libraries, archives, on
internet, bookshops, etc.
(iii) Electronic sources (Audio-visual sources)
An electronic source generally refers to any device or component that
produces or utilizes electrical signals. This can include electronic devices
such as computers, smartphones, sensors, and other gadgets. It may
also refer to electronic sources of information, such as digital databases,
online publications, or any other content that is stored or transmitted
electronically.
Getting information through seeing and hearing is what we call audiovisual.
It is one of the ways through which historical information is
collected.
It also deals with obtaining information by listening to or watching other
devices. It is one of the modern sources of information.(iv) Archaeology
It refers to the study of dug up materials or material remains of people’s
past. Ryamurari is one of the archaeological sites in our country. It is
located in Bufunda Village, Bufunda Cell, Mukama Sector, Nyagatare
District in Eastern Province.Important!
As a way of conserving the environment, places of historical importance
need to be protected. Such places can be used to generate income to the
locals and to the government. This can be achieved through tourism.(v) LinguisticsLinguistics deals with the study and analysis of languages, their sound,
evolution structure and formation. It also deals with the relationship
between various languages. From these studies, one can conclude that
people of the same language may have been in contact. For example,
Bantu language ( Kinyarwanda, Luganda ,Kiswahili, Kirundi…) has
common words linked to ‘NTU’ that indicates that they may share a
common historical origin.
Important!
Even when all of you have a common local language, the pronunciations
of words may differ. This is because of where each of you was born. In spite
of all this, the meaning remains the same. Language is a unifying factor
among people. This is because they can understand each other, relate
well and solve any issues that may arise amongst them. This promotes
peace in the long run.
(vi) Anthropology
This is the study of the existing social institutions and relationships of
people’s cultures, traditions, norms, values and attitudes. It deals with the
study of how societies were established. It also deals with how they were
socially, economically and politically organised. All these acts are the basis
of transformation of society to the present status.
By studying people’s past, we appreciate their culture. This helps us to
pick and promote acceptable behaviour. We also avoid what has been
proved negative to the general wellbeing of the society.
In Rwanda, the Institute of National Museum is a good source of
information. It has information on the history of the country and the
region.
Rwanda is known worldwide as a country of a thousand hills. It is also
one of the world’s richest nations in terms of diversified cultural heritage.
The Rwandan cultural heritage contains both tangible and intangible
components.
These include sites that offer an incomparable view of the beauty of our
country. They also give our visitors a platform to learn about Rwandan
History, mythology and culture. Travelling through the country provides
an interesting insight into some of those sites. Most of these sites are
often located in beautiful countryside.
The Institute of National Museums of Rwanda (INMR) researches on these
sites. It is a way of identifying, protecting and promoting them for cultural
heritage. Cultural heritage promotes tourism.
(vii) GeneticsGenetics is the study of genes, heredity and genetic variations in living
organisms. Genetic studies enables historians to categorise different
races and ethnic groups. The study of Genetics enables historians to
understand human identity and origins of different communities. Since
this occurs over time, a historian can capture relevant periods in the
development of people.Through comparative studies of DNA (Deoxyribonucleic Acid)
which is inherited from parents, it is widely believed that
modern humans, Homo sapiens sapiens, originated in Africa.
1. Briefly define the term “History”.
2. Explain any two sources of History.1.2 Primary and secondary sources of information
By using internet or the History books in library, carry out research
on primary and secondary sources of information
The sources of information may be acquired from people who
had firsthand account of the event or events. One way is through
narrations. This makes up primary sources of information.
The information may as well be interpreted, analysed and written.
The writings may be in form of stories, pictures or even symbols and
signs. This form of passing historical information make up secondary
sources of information.Primary sources of History
I was present during the wedding between Ms Ingabire and Mr
Mazimpaka. I swear that was the wedding of the year. It could only
be likened to a state function. Many dignitaries from Rwanda and
other countries were present. The most memorable moment was
their arrival. I saw and counted fifty cars. What a motorcade!
About thirty minutes after the cars had been parked, a thunderous
sound was heard. Attention of those present shifted to the sky. Ten
white choppers were descending to earth. They landed in style,
one after the other. The bride and the groom alighted. They were
received by a well-trained band. In short, it was a colorful wedding
ceremony.
The above narration gives a first-hand account of the wedding. The
person talking witnessed the wedding. This is an example of a primary
source.
Primary sources provide first-hand accounts about a person or a historical
event. Examples of primary sources of History are:
•Letters • Manuscripts
•Speeches • Photographs
• Diaries • Artefacts
•Oral
Secondary sources of History
Five years down the line, the wedding of Mr and Mrs Mazimpaka is still
being talked about. It is said that it was attended by dignitaries from
Rwanda and beyond. Some say that the bride and the bridegroom
were escorted by about ten choppers. The number of vehicles at the
ceremony is said to have been over forty.
The above is an extract from one of the local newspapers in Rwanda.
It reports about the wedding you read about under primary sources of
History. Such a report is what makes a secondary source. This is because
secondary sources of History interpret and analyse primary sources of
History. They may have pictures, quotes or graphics of primary sources in
them. Examples of secondary sources of History include:
•Magazines
•Articles•Encyclopedia
3. Distinguish primary sources from secondary sources.
4. Among the documents below, distinguish primary and
secondary sources: textbooks, pictures of my parents when
they were young, old weeding dress, letter, stories, maps and
pottery.1.3 Process of collecting Historical information
By using internet or the History books in library to conduct research
on the process of collecting historical information
Kayirege is a student who sits in front of the class because she is
short-sighted. She was given a task by her Mathematics teacher.
She was asked to write the names of students in her class. She wrote
eighteen names for all the girls and sixteen names for the boys. On
that day, one male student, who was sick, was absent. She indicated
this on her list. She presented the list to her teacher afterwards.
By doing this exercise, Kayirege was collecting information about
her class.
The following is the process of collecting information:
• Data collection
• Data analysis• Conclusion
Historical information is collected following the same process.
By writing the names, Kayirege was collecting information about
members of her class. Data collection is gathering of information from
different sources. The methods of data collection include questionnaires,
interviews, focus groups, survey, tape-recording, filming, photographing
and observation.
To determine the number of female and male students, Kayirege was to
analyse the information she had collected. Her further analysis showed
that one student, who was male, was absent. Data analysis involves
putting or simplifying the data collected for easy interpretation. It can be
put in categories, tabular, pictorial, chart or graph form.
From the class list Kayirege presented to the teacher, a conclusion could
easily be made. For example, one can calculate the ratio of girls to boys in
the class. It is also possible to calculate the percentage of girls and boys
in the class. This is called a conclusion. A conclusion is therefore making
decisions on the data collected.
1.4. Different ways of collecting historical information in ancient Rwanda
With an example, explain how you can collect data, analyzing them
and make a conclusion.
Through reading different sources of information, suggest the ways of
collecting historical information about ancient Rwanda. involves various
methods and sources. It is important to note that the availability and
reliability of sources may vary, and historians often rely on a combination
of methods to piece together a comprehensive understanding of the
past.
Oral sources are the most important in the study of the History of ancient
Rwanda, we can distinguish four different oral sources:• Historical stories;
• Genealogies;
• Poetry and songs;
• “Ubwiru” or esoteric code1. Historical stories
Historical stories (ibitekerezo) narrate ancient events. These are dividedinto three major categories:
Official stories
These are narrated by people who learnt them systematically from their
parents or their neighbors. Their origin was usually an official edition of
chosen events and these stories were usually passed through the royal
court.Popular stories
They are more or less presented in the same way as the official stories but
these ones enjoyed more freedom in their transmission. These stories have
to a large extent interesting marvelous legends, tales/imigani miremire,proverbs/imigani migufi, and riddles/ibisakuzo
Familiar stories
These are of great importance to the history of Rwanda because they
were private and therefore were not manipulated.They cover the period of the reign of King RWABUGIRI up to today. For
example, it is said that in these popular stories, it was King Rwabugiri who
brought maize.2.Genealogies
Genealogy is the study of families, family history and the tracing of thelineages. Gealogies are divided into :
Dynastic genealogy (ubucurabwenge
This is an original text which was orally and carefully transmitted by
genealogists called “Abacurabwenge”. “Ubucurabwenge” can cite proper
names of all the Kings of Rwanda and their royal titles. This genealogy was
and is still the most important source for the chronology of the History of
RwandaFamily genealogy
These are useful because they complete the chronology given by dynastic
genealogists. In precolonial Rwanda, declamation of genealogy used to
help people or families to identify themselves in the community.3.Poems and Songs
Poetry in Rwanda is transmitted in an imaginary form. Commentators
can give interpretation and sense to these poems. These commentaries
are often lacking in many aspects. In ancient Rwanda, there were various
types of poetry: dynastic poetry, pastoral poetry (amahamba/amazina
y’inka) warrior poetry (ibyivugo). Dynastic poetry (Ibisigo): showed praises
of merit and bravery and heroism to the reigning and departed kings.
Traditional songs and dance are big parts of life in Rwanda. They are
mixed in festivals, social events, wedding, naming a child, giving a cow
etc. As an example, Intore dance is a traditional performance that talks
about bravery activities of Rwandans in ancient period. It is performed
by drums. Both men and women are participated in this traditional
performance. Another traditional music and dance is amahigi, which
is dedicated to hunting activities. Some other type of folk songs which
can be mentioned and accompanied with dance too are ibihozo (choral
songs), indirimbo z’ingabo (warriors’ songs), amasare (wrestling songs), ...
4.Esoteric code (Ubwiru)This text was exclusively for the abiru who were special advisers to the
King. They were charged with the responsibility of knowing all the rules
and application of these rules relating to the royal institution. They also
supervised the symbolic representations and behaviors of the Kings. The
abiru texts were rituals, which were learnt by heart by the abiru.
As for other traditional African societies, ancient Rwandans had the
ways of collecting historical information. Mention and briefly explain
them.1.5. Importance of studying History
By using internet or the History books in library to conduct research
on the importance of studying History.Gahizi, Kwikiriza and Hakuzimana were high school friends. They all
studied History. They recently met in a café for their business deals.
Gahizi: Tomorrow, I will be passing judgement on a case that has
been ongoing for months now. However, I am happy that the end
seems near.
Kwikiriza: As for me, I will be indoor. We were out of the city
overseeing road constructions.
Hakuzimana: Then I suggest we meet next weekend because
I will be having History lectures with my university students on
Wednesday and Thursday. Can we meet somewhere else or will we
come back here to discuss our pending business deal?
From the conversation, it is evident that the trio went on to pursue
lucrative careers. The study of History further enabled them get their
current jobs. From them, we learn that History is a career subject.
The following are other reasons why History is more than a career subject:• History prepares us for the future, after we have known the present
and past. For example, Rwanda’s pre-colonial, colonial and postcolonial eras
helps us plan for our country.•The study of History inspires us and instills in us a patriotic and
nationalistic spirit. This spirit develops as we learn about our heroes
such as Ruganzu II Ndoli.•We study History as a career subject. Through it, we can become
teachers, lawyers, administrators, curators and politicians.
•It also sharpens our critical sense as it widens our knowledge
and competencies. Through History, we can read, write, interpret
information, debate and draw logical conclusions and judgments.• It promotes moral principles through the study of personalities
with high moral standards. It helps us to avoid any form of injustice.
• It helps to promote international understanding among nations
and people. This is through the study of other countries’ systems
of governance. It can be achieved through actions of international
organisations such as the United Nations (UN), African Union (AU)
and the East African Community (EAC).• It helps us to be tolerant. Through the study of History, we are
able to learn about culture and values of different ethnic groups,
tribes and races. This is important in the promotion of mutual
understanding, tolerance and peaceful co-existence.• It helps us to understand the nature of social, economic and
political problems of a given society.• It helps us to make a thorough analysis of the past events such as
the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. This will help us prevent them
from occurring again.
Explain any three elements for justifying the importance of learningHistory.
1.6. Challenges in collecting historical sources
By using internet or the History books in library to conduct research
on the challenges encountered in collecting historical sources
Other challenges in collecting historical information• Some sources are inconvenient to use for all learners. For instance,
oral tradition which cannot be used by people with hearing
impairments.
• Some historical sources are affected by language barrier.
• A piece of information may be in a local language which might
be not easy to translate into another language. Written records
cannot be used by illiterate people.
•Oral traditional sources are highly affected by death. Once someone
dies before it is recorded then the information is lost.•Some historical sources are very hard to interpret and are usually
misinterpreted. For example, use of gestures. In some cases, stone
inscriptions found in caves are sources of historical information,
though may be hard to interpret.• In some cases, getting the right information takes a longer time.
This is because of the many processes involved.
•Some historical sources such as archaeology are expensive to use.
They require expensive resources such as excavation and laboratory
equipment.
• Some historical sources such as archaeology require experts and
skilled people. Such experts are usually lacking in some areas.
• It is also difficult to trace some historical information especially
where fossils are involved.
Referring to the above challenges of collecting historical information,
what are the challenges of collecting historical information in ancient
Rwanda.
1. Identify the source of information that will be easier to use for:(a) The visually impaired2. Justify the importance of studying History.
(b) The physically handicapped
(c) Those with hearing impairments
3. I identify different ways through which historical information is
collected.
4. Explain the challenges faced in collecting historical information.- History S1 SB File Uploaded 4/11/21, 09:47
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