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HIS 102, Beaujot, Spring 2018: Primary vs. Secondary Sources

Primary Sources

The Basics

Primary Sources are from the time period under study. Types of documents include: 

  • Correspondence and letters
  • Art and literature
  • Speeches
  • Audio/video recording
  • Newspapers
  • Legal and government documents

Secondary Sources

The Basics

These are produced after the event happens and are not a first-hand account of the event. Documents include:

  • Encyclopedia
  • Journal article
  • Newspapers (sometimes)
  • Books

What's the Difference?