Primary Vs. Secondary Sources

What exactly are primary and secondary sources? Well, if you do not know already, the difference between these two sources is tremendously important to understanding history! Knowledge of these two document sources will aid you in getting different perspectives on how various historical events, people are viewed by people that look back on them later. Without further ado, we will first examine the source that you are most likely to be familiar with, secondary sources.

Secondary sources interpret and analyzes primary sources. These sources are one or more steps removed from the event. Secondary sources could include the following: pictures, quotes or graphics of primary sources in them. Examples of secondary sources would include: textbooks, books and journals or newspapers that examine the effects/causes of an event. Secondary sources are good for creating a more broad understanding of an event or a persons life. Essentially, they can fill in the gaps left by some primary source documents.

Primary sources are documents or actual objects that were written about or created during the time under study. These sources were present during an experience or time period and offer an inside view of a particular event. Some types of primary sources include diaries, speeches, manuscripts, letters, interviews, news film footage, autobiographies and official records. Primary sources are good at getting to the bottom of events or understanding why people do certain things and why. These are considered primary sources simply due to the fact that these artifacts come from someone that actually experienced the event or were alive during a certain event.

Now to recap, primary sources are sources that come from either someone present at a specific event or lived during that time. Examples of this would include diaries, letters and official records. Secondary resources interpret and analyze primary sources. Secondary sources come from people that were not either present or alive during the time of the specific event. Examples of secondary document sources would include textbooks, newspapers and books. Understanding the differences between these two source types and how to use them effectively are crucial tools to writing and interpreting good history.

Now that you have a base knowledge of these two sources, please list two specific types for each source in the comment section. Also, are these two sources bias? If so, which one do you think is more bias and why? Please answer both questions in your initial post.

Still confused? I have included a link that should hopefully clear up any misunderstandings you may have, concerning these source types. However, if you have any questions or concerns with these sources, you can contact me via email, phone or after class.