
A primary source is a document or physical object which was written or created during the time under study. These sources were present during an experience or time period and offer an inside view of a particular event. Some types of primary sources include:
- ORIGINAL DOCUMENTS (excerpts or translations acceptable): Diaries, speeches, manuscripts, letters, interviews, news film footage, autobiographies, official records
- CREATIVE WORKS: Poetry, drama, novels, music, art
- RELICS OR ARTIFACTS: Pottery, furniture, clothing, buildings
Primary sources can include charters, correspondence, diaries, early works, interviews, manuscripts, oratory, pamphlets, personal narratives, speeches, letters, and documents.
Source: Princeton University http://www.princeton.edu/~refdesk/primary2.html
In contrast, a secondary source of information is one created later by someone who did not experience first-hand or participate in the events or conditions you are researching. Secondary sources are works that analyze, assess, or interpret a historical event, era, or phenomenon, generally utilizing primary sources to do so. Secondary sources often offer a review or a critique. Secondary sources can include books, journal articles, speeches, reviews, research reports, and more.
Source: University of California Libraries https://www.lib.uci.edu/secondary-sources