Suggested search terms
Follow the guidelines for each of the databases listed. Some databases have only primary source documents. Others include primary sources along with other materials, and you must find the correct link or tab in connection with your search.
Recommended databases for finding Primary Source Documents
- American History Online This link opens in a new windowSpans more than 500 years of political, military, social, and cultural history, highlighting the important people and events of the American experience. Look for the Primary Sources under the Advanced Search option or 'Browse - Resources'.
- Ancient and Medieval History Online This link opens in a new windowExplores the pre-modern world with in-depth focus on Egypt, Mesopotamia, Greece, Rome, Africa, Europe, the Americas, and Asia. Look for the Primary Sources under the Advanced Search option or 'Browse - Resources'.
- Modern World History Online This link opens in a new windowCovers the people, places, and events in the broad expanse of history-from mid-15th century to the present. Look for the Primary Sources under the Advanced Search option or 'Browse - Resources'.
- CQ Historic Documents 1972 to Present This link opens in a new windowEach annual volume includes approximately 100 documents covering the most significant events of the years 1972 - 2016. These documents range from presidential speeches, international agreements, and Supreme Court decisions to U.S. governmental reports, scientific findings, and cultural discussions. To find prior years, type "Historic Documents" in the Search all Sage Knowledge box. It is easiest to search in here when you know a specific year.
- Black Thought and Culture This link opens in a new window
Black Thought and Culture contains 1,300+ sources with 1,210 authors, covering the non-fiction published works of leading African Americans. Click: Find - Sources. - Oxford African American Studies Center This link opens in a new windowPrimary documents, web sites, and maps. Material is compiled by Oxford University Press from their many reference works. Look for 'Primary Sources' under the 'Search' or 'Browse' tab.
- Newspaper databasesDon't forget that most newspaper articles can be primary source documents, since they document something that happens at the time that it happens!