This article seeks to examine the intentions, practices, and contributions of the use of oral witnesses in the teaching of history. Initially, we will deal with the main concerns and potentials involved in the use of witnesses' memories in the teaching of history. Next, we will study the motivations inherent to this resource and the many different ways of approaching them. We will propose a view of the educational practices concerning oral witnesses as an incursion into history through empathy and/or as a cognitive lever to stimulate the development of the students' thinking about history. We will highlight the interest and the limits, the efficacy and the obstacles resulting from these practices.