The legacy of our past [History; IEEE History Center]

This article, representing a change of pace, discusses the IEEE's process of preserving and presenting the fascinating history of electrical and information technologies through the IEEE History Committee and the IEEE History Center. Special emphasis is given to oral histories and milestones, two major programs that offer opportunities for IEEE members to directly initiate and participate in preserving, publicizing, and honoring significant achievements in electrical engineering and computing. While these programs cover the areas of interest of all IEEE Societies, this article deals primarily with electric power engineering.