How do I find a primary source?

How can I find primary sources for my research?


Answer

Primary sources vary from discipline to discipline, but generally speaking it is evidence that was created a close as possible to the event happening. Here are some examples:

  • History - objects, interviews, etc. that were created at the time an event happened by a person who witnessed it
  • Science - original research on a subject
  • Arts - an original painting, dance, piece of music, or work of literature.

Information on locating primary sources can be found on our Primary Sources Research Guide.

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  • Last Updated Apr 30, 2025
  • Views 4
  • Answered By Leslie Inglis

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