One of the crucial lessons in studying history is the importance of primary sources compared to secondary sources. This sampler is designed to give you an introduction to both kinds. Site updated July, 2011.

Sites to Explore

The History of Herodotus, Book II Questions:

1. What was Herodotus' source for the story of the two children raised in isolation?
2. What was this story supposed to prove?
3. Why does Herodotus reject the theory that the flooding is caused by the melting of snow?

1. What are the three parts of Gaul?
2. Why are the Belgae the bravest?
3. What are the boundaries of Aquitania?

1. How should a leader deal with an ignorant person? ('Be not arrogant...')
2. Instead of using fear, how should a leader inspire others? ('Inspire not men with fear...')
3. What is a better way to make people afraid of you than by boasting? ('If you are a farmer...')

1. What things should you consider in evaluating web resources?')
2. What kinds of hints can you get from the URL about a website?
3. What factors need to be considered in determining where the author of the website got the documents?

1. What are the problems involved in using information from newspaper articles and textbooks?
2. What happened in the 19th century to make primary sources from the Middle Ages more accessible?
3. How does the story of the Scottish historian, Robertson, illustrate the dangers of using unreliable sources?

Conclusion

Students and teachers are welcome to use this site in their history classes.