Primary and Secondary Sources

Front

What is a primary source?

Back

A primary source is an original document or physical object created at the time under study. Examples include photographs, diaries, and official documents.

Front

What is a secondary source?

Back

A secondary source is a document or recording that relates or discusses information originally presented elsewhere. Examples include textbooks, articles, and documentaries.

Front

Give an example of a primary source.

Back

An original photograph from the 1941 attack at Pearl Harbor.

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Give an example of a secondary source.

Back

A history book about the first constitutional convention.

Front

What type of source is The Declaration of Independence?

Back

Primary Source.

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What type of source is a map drawn by Christopher Columbus?

Back

Primary Source.

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What are some examples of secondary sources?

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A dictionary, an almanac, and an encyclopedia.

Front

Which is NOT a secondary source?

Back

An autobiography about Bill Clinton.

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Why are primary sources important?

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They provide direct evidence and firsthand accounts of historical events.

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Why are secondary sources useful?

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They help interpret and analyze primary sources, providing context and summaries.