Local history for sustainable and consolidated local development

Abstract

     This study aims 1) to study the concept of local history and its applicationying 2) to learn the lessons in applying history to local development from the Thailand’s local northeastern region (Isan) in applying history to local development.
The qQualitative methods were adopted by this study including the review of relevant documents. The study indicated that local history is a study of history taking into account people in the local communitiesy, instead of focusing on
individuals of national importance. the national key person. It is a history that emphasizes focusing on an interconnected diversity, not centered on the power of government. The study of local history gives importance to legends as representing beliefs and tellings of the local people. The approach gives priority to local people and their oral history. at the center of power. The local history studies pay attention on myths and the oral history. These deem as a faith and the meaningful storytelling to the local livelihoods. The local historical approach involves the followinges are as follows: 1) targeting or identifying the issues of studying; 2) reviewing relevant local historical literature and evidence; 3) in-depth interviews and group discussions to seek local histories; 4) synthesis analysis, interpretation of data and principles; 5) presentation of local historical information; and 6) utilization of local history.

     The use of local history in development in the Isan development is multidimensional, including: 1) using local history to raise awareness and to enhance local loyalty;. 2) using local history to deal with state power and external
capital;. 3) using local history to promote local tourism; and 4) using local history to enhance local education.