Definition of a Primary Source |
Definition of a Secondary Source |
| A primary source reflects the individual viewpoint of a participant or observer during a historical event or time period. | A secondary source interprets or analyzes a historical event or phenomenon. It is generally at least one step removed from the event. |
General Examples of Primary Sources |
General Examples of Secondary Sources |
| Diaries, journals, speeches, interviews, letters | dictionaries, encyclopedias, textbooks |
| Photographs, audio recordings, video recordings | books and articles that interpret or review research works. |
| physical objects, buildings, furniture, tools, appliances and household items, clothing, toys |
Specific Examples of Primary Sources |
Specific Examples of Secondary Sources |
| Original artwork | Article critiquing the piece of ar |
| Slave diary | Book about the Underground Railroad |
| Poem | Treatise on a particular genre of poetry |
| Treaty | Essay on Native American land rights |
| Videotape of a performance | Biography of a playwright |