Discussion questions
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what_are_primary_sources.docxWhat are Primary Sources?
Primary sources are documents or artifacts created during a historical event or by someone who personally witnessed a historical event.
Primary sources can take many forms, including:
· First-hand accounts—oral histories, memoirs, diaries, letters, interviews, etc.
· Media accounts—newspaper or television report
· Political or legal documents—Congressional
· Records, Presidential Papers, Court rulings,
· Speeches, census or tax records
· Artistic works—Photographs, paintings, sculptures, films
· Artifacts—clothing, buildings, pottery
All primary sources, except first-hand accounts, must have been created at the time of the historical event that you are researching.
First-hand accounts must be an explanation of the historical event that you’re researching by someone who personally witnessed the event.
