Click each box to learn about primary sources.
Definition
Primary Source
A primary source is an original document or object created by someone who was living during the same time period that you are studying.
Primary sources are the raw materials of history.
Purpose
The purpose of primary sources is to capture a moment in time (including the thoughts, words and feelings) from the past.
Primary sources help you to identify what happened by someone who was involved in the event.
Examples
Primary sources include:
• Letters
• Speeches
• Diary entries
• Creative works
• Poetry
• Art
• Music
• Maps