HST 103: Introduction to American Civilizations: Find Primary Sources

Guide for HST 103 course assignments

Primary Sources

Primary sources provide direct, firsthand evidence about an event, object, or person. They are not interpretative beyond that original perspective. Primary sources include everything from diaries, letters, manuscripts, audio and video recordings, speeches, artwork, interview, surveys, emails, scientific research results, census records, etc. 

Find Primary Sources

Primary and Secondary Sources

Evaluating Online Primary Sources

Keep in mind:

  1. Who created the website?
  2. Who is the intended audience?
  3. Where did they get the primary sources from?
  4. Is the content clearly explained, organized, and accessible?
Subjects: History
  • Last Updated: Jun 23, 2025 1:36 PM
  • URL: https://libguides.gvsu.edu/hst103