What is a primary source?
A primary source is an object or document that was written or created during the time of a specific event . The person writing or creating the document has first hand knowledge of the event or is the original creator. Examples include:
what is a secondary source?
A secondary source is a source that is not directly involved in the event. They provide either an overview, evaluation, analysis, or interpretation of the event. Examples include:
types of materials could be both primary or secondary
questions to ask yourself about primary sources?
Check to see when it was written- Was it written during the time period of the person's life or event?
Check to see who wrote it? Was it years later? Was it written by someone not involved in
the event?
the event?
Where did I find it? On a museum website or government website?