History 4385 Research Guide:Primary Sources

About Primary Sources

Definition

Primary sources were either created during the historical period being studied or after that period by someone who participated in the events. They reflect the experience of a participant or observer, and are valuable for providing a current perspective on events that may have happened far in the past. (However, not everyone agrees on what constitutes a primary or secondary source in any given situation. Check with your professor to be sure!)

Where can primary sources be found?

Primary sources can be found in a variety of locations. Some are in printed books in the library. Some might be in microfilm or microfiche collections. Some may be available online, either in a database we pay for, or on the free Internet. Original documents and other artifacts may be in Special Collections and Archives.

Before you start searching

Take some time to think about what types of primary sources you are likely to find for your research topic. Possible sources include:

Books Periodicals
Photographs Artworks
Cartoons Memoirs
Letters Diaries
Government documents Maps
Audio recordings Transcripts
Speeches Films

 

The type of source you are looking for determines the tool you should use to look for it. In this guide, you will find pages for the most commonly used types of primary sources, and there we have included suggestions on where to look for sources for your research.

What you already know about your topic will help determine your search strategies for primary sources. Make sure you have a grasp of important people, organizations or agencies, places and dates relating to your research, at least in broad terms, before you begin your search for primary sources. You can search more efficiently with this information already in hand. Reference sources and secondary sources are good places to look for background information.

What are primary sources?

A helpful video from the Minnesota Historical Society.

Remember, not everyone agrees on what constitutes a primary or secondary source in any given situation. Check with your professor to be sure!