Archives of Origins: Traces and Narrative (Dis-) Continuities in the Files of France’s Child Welfare System, 1995-2015

Based on an investigation of child welfare services in France, this article examines the “traces” left in the files of children whose parents’ identities are unknown or who were given up for adoption. The management of administrative documents, letters, photographs, and other items sheds light on the perception of relationships in situations of adoption, highlighting new aspects of contemporary multi-parenthood.