The sites on this page give an introduction to the positive and negative uses of primary and secondary sources. Answering the questions based on those sites will give the student important information in judging the reliability and usefulness of such sources. Site updated July, 2011.

Sites to Explore

Using Primary Sources on the Web Questions:

1. What factors must a researcher consider when evaluating primary sources over the Internet?
2. List six ways to find primary source websites.
3. How might the purpose of a website affect the reliability of primary source material found on that site?

1. According to the Mayflower Compact, what countries were ruled by King James?
2. What reasons did the signers of the Mayflower Compact give for establishing a colony in Virginia?
3. When and where was the Mayflower Compact signed?

1. How did the Emancipation Proclamation change the goals of the Union in the Civil War?
2. How did the Emancipation Proclamation affect slaves in the loyal border states?
3. How was the Emancipation Proclamation intended to affect the actions of Great Britain and France?

1. According to the wording of the Emancipation Proclamation, which slaves would become free on January 1, 1863?
2. What factors are explained in the previous website on the Emancipation Proclamation that would not be apparent in the primary source?
3. According to the wording of the Emancipation Proclamation, which slaves would become free on January 1, 1863?

1. What is the definition of a primary source?
2. What is the definition of a seconday source?
3. When using a search engine (such as Google) to find primary sources on John and Abigail Adams, what keywords would be appropriate to enter?

Conclusion

Teachers and students of history are free to use this website in their studies. Questions or comments via e-mail are always welcome.