Western Civilization II: Primary Sources
This guide was designed as a starting point for researching topics in Western Civilization, Hist102, 1500 - Present
What is a Primary Source?
A primary source is a document or object created at the time of the event. Considered eye-witness or firsthand accounts, primary sources come in a variety of formats:
- Examples of primary sources include:ORIGINAL DOCUMENTS (excerpts or translations acceptable): Diaries, speeches, manuscripts, letters, interviews, news film footage,
autobiographies, official records - CREATIVE WORKS: Poetry, drama, novels, music, art
- RELICS OR ARTIFACTS: Pottery, furniture, clothing, buildings
- Diary of Anne Frank - Experiences of a Jewish family during WWII
- The Constitution of Canada - Canadian History
- A journal article reporting NEW research or findings
- Weavings and pottery - Native American history
http://libguides.princeton.edu/history/primarysources
Learn more about primary sources at Primary Source Village.