1.1
Analyze Primary and Secondary Sources
September 1, 2025
Nakshatra Nallacharu
5
Min Read
AI Summary
These revision notes focus on distinguishing between firsthand and secondhand historical accounts and using direct evidence to support interpretations. For example, a diary written during a battle is firsthand, while a textbook summary is secondhand. To evaluate sources, ask who created it, when, and why—and back up conclusions with quotes like “According to the text…” or “The author stated…”.
Principle
Understand the difference between firsthand and secondhand accounts of history.
Steps
Identify whether a source was created during or after the event.
Ask "what, who, when, where, why” questions
Examples
Who created this?
When and where was it made?
What was the purpose?
Does the creator have a bias?
Cite Textual Evidence
Back up your ideas with facts directly from the source.
Steps
Read the source carefully.
Pick out a sentence, phrase, or quote that proves your point/ answers the question.
Refer to the phrases below
Examples
The author wrote...
The author stated...
According to the text...
In the text, it said...
One example from the text is...
From the reading, I know that...
Based on what I read...
On page/line ... it said...
On page/line ... I noticed...
... because in the text ...
For instance...
For example...
Why it Matters
Historians must prove their claims with evidence.
Example Question
The Ancient Egyptians built massive pyramids as tombs for their pharaohs. These structures were carefully aligned with the stars and took years to construct. Workers used simple tools and sheer manpower to move heavy limestone blocks. These pyramids were meant to honor the dead and ensure their journey to the afterlife.
Why did the Egyptians build pyramids for the pharaohs?