Or the angels will weep for you....
The simplest way to find books that contain primary source documents relevant to this period is to do a subject search and add the term "Sources" to the search string. For example: "Thirty Years War 1618 1648 Sources." The search yielded this source:
A primary source is a document or other historical evidence written or created during or near the period under study. Because of their close relation to the subject, primary sources usually offer special insight about their topic. The person, organization, or body under study often generates them. There are many examples of primary sources; each varies according to the nature of your topic. Primary sources generally are:
• Original Documents: Diaries, manuscripts, speeches, letters, minutes, interviews, news or film footage, autobiographies, and official records and documents. Note: Translations and excerpts are acceptable.
• Creative Works: Poetry, drama, novels, short stories, music, and art
• Relics or Artifacts: Jewelry, pottery, furniture, clothing, and buildings
Cultivate an attitude of skepticism when it comes to web-based content. If you have any doubt whatsoever about the reliability of any given website, clear it with your instructor or check with a librarian before you use it in your paper.
