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Primary Sources: Definitions

A primary source...

A primary source was created or recorded during the time it occurred, or created/recorded by someone who was present during the experience or time period. Examples can include:

  • Research results
  • Speeches
  • Diaries
  • Data
  • Interviews
  • Autobiographies
  • News footage
  • Photographs
  • Official records

A secondary source...

Secondary sources are one or more sources removed from the actual event; they offer an analysis of primary sources, or attempt to explain or describe those primary sources. Examples can include:

  • Textbooks
  • Encyclopedias
  • Biographies
  • Articles that offer analysis, review, or interpretation.
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