Primary Sources at USF
A primary source is an original document or object that offers firsthand, direct evidence about a topic. It is an unprocessed source created during the time of the event or by someone who directly experienced it. Essentially, a primary source serves as a direct link to the past, providing insights into the people, events, and ideas of that time.
Primary Sources in art or literature: these include the actual works of art, as well as related materials such as artists' writings, photographs, and historical documents. They provide direct, first-hand evidence about an artwork, artist, or art movement.
Primary Sources in History: primary sources in history are original documents or materials produced during the time being studied. They provide firsthand accounts and evidence of past events. These sources are essential for historians, as they offer direct insights into people, events, and ideas, helping to deepen our understanding and interpretation of the past.