Historical source

  • Type

The main difference between a primary and a secondary source is when they were made.

Primary sources were made during the historical period that is being investigated. These are often the hardest to find but, as a result, are often the strongest evidence you can use in your assessment pieces.

Secondary sources were made after the time period you are investigating. As you progress as a History editor, you will start to find that some secondary sources are better than others.


Name

Historical source

Description

A source provides information about the historical topic you are studying. They can either be written (e.g., books or websites), or non-written (e.g., photographs or artefacts). There are two kinds of sources: primary and secondary.

Types