What are primary sources?
Primary sources are materials that offer original data or perspectives on a particular time or place. They are usually written close to the period in question, but can sometimes be retrospective reflections by firsthand witnesses. Examples include: Diaries, Novels, Music, Film, Newspaper Articles, Artworks, Autobiographies, Government Records, Speeches, Correspondence, Photographs, and more.
How do I find them?
- Use keywords like "sources" or the type of primary source you're looking for
- For instance "American History Sources" or "African American Women Diaries, 20th Century"
- Look in the subject headings for words like "autobiography," "correspondence," "congresses," or "personal narratives"
- Filter by content type such as "Newspaper Article," "Magazine Article," "Pamphlet," or "Government Document"
