What is a Primary Source?
A primary source is first hand evidence. It was there at the time of an event. It is contemporary to the period being studied.
Examples of primary sources are:
• Speeches • Letters • Songs • Legislation • Court decisions • Journals/diaries • Interviews • Artifacts • Autobiographies • Photographs • Paintings
Gather the information you have about your topic and consider what you still need to know before you start researching, including:
• Dates
• Places
• Names of persons involved
• Names of organizations, government agencies, societies, etc.
Primary Source Links
EyeWitness to History
Internet Modern History Sourcebook