What is a Primary Source?

An original document or object created at the time you are studying.  These documents and objects contain information about people's experiences or explanations of places and events that took place exactly when the document was written or the object was created.

Types of Primary Sources Include...

  • ORIGINAL DOCUMENTS (excerpts or translations are OK): Letters, Official Records, Speeches, Diaries, Newspaper Articles. 
  • CREATIVE WORKS: Poetry, art, music.
  • OBJECTS OR ARTIFACTS: Furniture, Pottery/Silver, Weapons.

Examples

  • The Deceleration of Independence
  • A teapot or bowl made by Paul Revere
  • A map of Boston from 1775