1. Types of Sources

2. Different types of sources
When we want to study history to find out what happened and how people feel about it, we consult sources to help us (the historian) put the story together.
There are two different classifications for sources:
Secondary
Primary

3. Classification of Sources
Primary
Original source
This source was an eyewitness to the event we are studying
This source experienced the event in some way
Source doesn’t have to be a person but can also be physical items.
Secondary
Written or created by someone who is retelling the story of what happened.
The source wasn’t present at the experience or event being studied.
The source is filtering the information to the reader/viewer.

4. Examples always depend on what you are studying!
Primary Source examples:
Letters, interviews, photographs, diaries, newspapers, video clips of the event, posters, songs, clothing
Example: If I am studying the Civil War, some primary sources might include:
Diaries
Uniforms
Weapons
Maps
Photographs
Songs
Interviews done after the war
Speeches

5. Examples of Secondary Sources
Also depend on what you are studying
Can include:
History textbooks
Books
Websites
TV shows on the History Channel
Documentaries
If I was studying the Civil War and wanted to look at secondary sources I might look at:
Articles by scholars and historians
Books
Interviews with historians