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HIST 1110: Origins of the Modern World to 1500

This guide contains information for students in History 1110: Origins of the Modern World to 1500 on how to research ancient and medieval history

What Are Primary Sources?

Primary sources are first-hand accounts of events or time periods in history. These accounts can be in the form of: 

  • diaries
  • letters
  • memoirs
  • speeches
  • interviews
  • books
  • articles (published in newspapers, magazines, and journals)
  • government publications
  • pamphlets
  • manuscripts
  • maps
  •  
  • photographs
  • audio/video recordings
  • objects of material culture, art, etc.

Often times, primary sources are collected and published in book form at a later date. So, for example, you could find a collection of primary sources related to the Middle Ages that was published in 2012 (the collection, not the original sources). In other words, don't be thrown off when looking at publication dates! 

Research Tip

As you research your topic, make note of any primary sources you may want to find, as well as any authors or key figures who may have written a first-hand account related to your research topic. Having this information makes finding primary sources so much easier. Do yourself a favor and write this information down as you research. You'll be glad you did!