An Introduction to Primary Sources of History For Students

Today, using and finding primary sources is easier than ever as not only are they available through traditional places such as printed sources of history, a growing number of documents, photographs, maps and other first hand sources are available online.

What are Primary Sources of History?

A primary source of history is any document, artifact or other source that is contemporary to the time it is teaching about. It often comes in the form of chronicles or other eye witness accounts to events or can be a physical artifact giving direct evidence of a time frame.

Types of primary sources include pottery and other archeological finds, letters, diaries, charters, maps and books. Other sources might be of a more factual nature, such as inventories or tax records.

Finding Primary Sources of History

There are number of ways to find primary sources of history and learning them is important for all history students. One way is to look in the collage or local library that will hold various types of first hand sources. Visiting local record offices, museums and various other places can be of great benefit but the best way to access contemporary sources of history is often on the internet.

There are many websites that provide in part or in full, a host of types of first hand sources of history, including an up-and-coming site called ‘The Primary Sourcebook’. The site is categorized by time period and covers a range of categories providing interesting examples of first hand historical accounts.

The Primary Sourcebook also links back to the webpages, mostly academic, were the primary sources of information were first found making it a great resource tool for any history student.