Primary sources are the raw material upon which critical, analytic, and historic studies are based. These sources are the evidence left behind by participants or observers. Primary sources enable the researcher to get as close as possible to the truth of what actually happened during an historical event or time period. Here are some examples of primary sources: Original works of an author, illustrator, artist, photographer, songwriter, etc.
Letters | Ledgers, Account Books, Bills | Govt. Hearings |
Speeches | Oral History Tapes | Census Data |
Autobiographies | Photographs, Posters | Treaties |
Diaries | Newspaper Accounts | Cartoons |
In Special Collections and Archives
There are many wonderful primary sources right in our own Special Collections and Archives. The Special Collections and Archives reading room is on the upper level of the Athenaeum and is open to researchers 10 am – 4 pm, Monday through Friday, except for campus holidays. Other research times are available by appointment. Contact Special Collections Librarian and College at archives@goucher.edu or 410-337-6075.
In Books and Manuscripts: search the online catalog
--diaries | --interviews | --underground literature |
--sources | --anecdotes | --sermons |
--case studies | --songs and music | --personal narratives |
--correspondence | --public opinion | --caricatures and cartoons |
--photography | --pictorial works | --exhibitions |
Most databases will contain some primary sources. The following databases are recommended when looking for specific types of primary resources.
Newspapers and Journals
Other Databases
In Books and Manuscripts:
In Newspapers and Journals
Online Sources
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