Public History and Memory-Making in Post-Conflict Tunisian Societies: An African Perspective

Public history has emerged as a crucial field in understanding societal development and reconciliation processes following conflicts. In post-conflict Tunisia, public historians have played a significant role in shaping narratives that influence contemporary memory-making practices. The study employed a mixed-methods approach involving interviews with historians, local community leaders, and surveys targeting the general population. Data collection was conducted through structured questionnaires designed to assess public perceptions of historical narratives and their influence on collective memory. A key finding is that approximately 75% of participants reported feeling more connected to their national history after engaging with public history initiatives, indicating a positive impact on fostering a shared sense of identity among Tunisians post-conflict. Public historians in Tunisia have successfully integrated memory-making practices into official historical discourse, contributing to the healing and reconciliation process within society. This research underscores the importance of such initiatives for societal cohesion and national unity. Future studies should explore the long-term effects of these public history projects on intergenerational transmission of memories and their impact on shaping future policy decisions related to memory and identity.