Primary and Secondary Sources for Historical Writing

What are Primary Sources?

A primary source in history is an object or document produced during the time period one is studying.* Typically, a primary source provides a first-hand account of historical events. Some common examples of primary sources include photographs, films, diaries, letters, maps, speeches, artworks, monuments, oral histories, government records, and audiovisual recordings.

What are Secondary Sources?

In history, secondary sources are books, journal articles, scholarly papers, reports, and other professional publications that present an argument or information based on primary sources.* Some of the most credible secondary sources are peer-reviewed books, articles, and reports. Peer reviewed means an expert or professional evaluated the secondary source to ensure the content is reputable and accurate enough for publication.

*Note: Instructors may define primary and secondary sources differently. Always consult with the professor about what is considered a primary or secondary source for an assignment.

How to Use Primary Sources

As noted above, primary sources are a good place to find personal, first-hand accounts regarding a historical figure or event. A primary source, such as a diary, can provide access to thoughts and opinions of people living at a particular time. Therefore, primary sources can be used to develop an understanding of the historical context surrounding a topic. Another equally important way to use primary sources is as evidence to back up an argument or interpretation. For instance, a writer can use United States Census data to discuss how certain groups were viewed socially during a certain time frame by looking at the wording of the questions and answers.

How to Use Secondary Sources

Similarly, secondary sources can also be used as evidence to support an argument or interpretation. Citing well-known historical authors adds credibility to an argument about a historical event of figure. However, writers should avoid using another author’s ideas to make the argument. Aside from using secondary sources as proof, writers can discover different ways to conduct historical research and analysis from other historians. These methods can then be applied to future research, furthering one’s knowledge and skills.

Work Consulted

Turabian, Kate L. 2018. A Manual for Writers of Research Papers, Theses, and Dissertations. 9th ed. Chicago:

University of Chicago Press.