Writing assignments

History is characterized as the analysis of past occurrences. To comprehend history, one must first grasp the importance of sources. Primary sources offer firsthand evidence and are essential for substantiating historical events. Secondary sources are authored by individuals who did not directly observe the event but provide various perspectives and interpretations of primary sources. Primary and secondary sources are significant components of history, as they facilitate comprehension of important historical events.

When assessing a primary document, it is necessary to identify the author's trustworthiness based on their aim, intended audience, bias, and relationship to other texts. It is crucial to examine the author's intent and justification for composing this piece, as well as their position in society. Recognizing this will assist the reader in comprehending their motive inside the content.[1] Furthermore, identifying the targeted audience the author aimed to engage assists the reader in recognizing the intent.[2] Another significant issue to consider when analyzing a primary source document is the author's biased perspectives, as this will contribute to their legitimacy.[3] It is essential to compare the author's work with contemporaneous literature to enable the reader to recognize potential biases and assess reliability. For example, while discussing the persecution faced by the women’s suffrage movement, a pertinent primary source is the Petition from the Women Voters Anti-Suffrage Party of New York submitted to the United States Senate. The Civil Rights Act of 1964 is an example of a primary source, this ruling prohibited discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin[4] Thus, primary sources constitute the most critical evidence for historical support, whereas secondary sources also significantly influence interpretations of history.

When examining a secondary source document, it is important to study the many elements of its nature.[5] Who is the author and who is the publisher? What is the fundamental thesis or argument? What is the background of the document's composition and its purpose? Does the author utilize primary sources as evidence to support their work?[6] Posing these questions aids the reader in understanding the author's viewpoint and bias more effectively. Utilizing secondary materials can enhance comprehension of a primary source; a textbook can provide valuable insights. The book The Bill of the Century: The Epic Battle for the Civil Rights Act would serve as a secondary source examining the Civil Rights Movement and segregation in America[7]. The author utilizes original materials in this book and elucidates his interpretation of the visuals.

In conclusion, it is essential to ascertain the utility of sources for effective incorporation. Despite primary source papers being eyewitness testimonies, it remains essential to scrutinize their reliability. Secondary sources provide the reader with an alternative perspective on primary sources. The basis of history depends on primary and secondary sources.



[1] Rael, Patrick. “How to Read a Primary Source.” Reading, Writing, and Researching for History. 2004. 1.

[2] Rael, Patrick. “How to Read a Primary Source.” Reading, Writing, and Researching for History. 2004. 3.

[3] Rael, Patrick. “How to Read a Primary Source.” Reading, Writing, and Researching for History. 2004. 1.

[4] The Civil Rights Act of 1964

[5] Rael, Patrick. “How to Read a Secondary Source.” Reading, Writing, and Researching for History. 2004. 1.

[6]Rampolla, Mary. Pocket Guide to Writing in History. Boston/New York: Bedford/St. Martin’s. 2012. 18.

[7] Risen, Clay. The bill of the century: The epic battle for the Civil Rights Act. New York: Bloomsbury Press, 2014.