Primary vs. Secondary Sources
It can be hard to find a good balance of primary and secondary sources. In fact, sometimes it's hard to even tell the difference between a primary and a secondary source.
If you're confused about the difference, you can read an explanation here.
Here are some links to pages that might also help you understand and analyze primary sources:
What are Primary Sources? (This site also helps you identify different kinds of primary sources)
Definition: Primary Sources
How to Read a Primary Source
Or, check out the quick explanation below:
Primary Sources
A primary source is any source of information that was created by witnesses or recorders who experienced the event or conditions being documented. Primary sources provide first-hand testimony or direct evidence about a topic. Often these sources are created at the time when the events or conditions are occurring, but primary sources can also include autobiographies, memoirs, and oral histories recorded later. ___________________________________ So, if your topic is the Civil War, a primary source might be:
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Secondary Sources
A secondary source is any source of information that was created after the event, by someone who did not participate in the event. Most of the sources you will find online or in books are secondary sources. ____________________________________ If your topic is the Civil War, a secondary source might be:
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If you're unsure whether a source is primary or secondary, ask your teacher!