The Origins and Sources of Studying History

The study of history has a rich and varied history. It was once a hallmark of the wealthy and the elite, serving as a way to showcase education and status in society. For those with leisure time and resources, studying history provided a respite from the harsh realities of daily life, which were often marked by war, disease, and various forms of suffering. While there are undoubtedly some great historical figures who contributed significantly to human knowledge, much of the study of history was, and still is, about showcasing one's status rather than a genuine interest in the subject.

Historical Sources: Primary, Secondary, and Tertiary

When it comes to the study of history, historical sources are the backbone of any academic exploration. These sources are original materials that contain historically significant information. They serve as the primary building blocks for understanding historical events and developments. There are three main types of historical sources: primary, secondary, and tertiary.

Primary Sources

Primary sources are documents, artifacts, or other types of evidence created during the time under study. These sources provide firsthand information about the subject under investigation. Examples of primary sources include governmental records, personal diaries, photographs, and audio recordings. Academic researchers rely on primary sources to gain direct insight into the historical events and contexts they are studying.

Primary sources can also include first-hand testimonies, such as memoirs, letters, and interviews. These sources often provide valuable personal perspectives that can enrich our understanding of historical events. For example, personal testimonies from war veterans can offer first-hand accounts of their experiences, providing a more nuanced understanding of the impact of wars on individuals and societies.

Secondary Sources

Secondary sources, on the other hand, provide analysis and interpretation of information originally presented in primary sources. Books, articles, and documentaries are typical examples of secondary sources. Scholars use these sources to synthesize and evaluate primary data, offering broader insights and deeper analysis. Secondary sources often include detailed narratives, critical evaluations, and contextual information that help to place primary sources in a broader historical framework.

For instance, a book about the American Civil War might include a comprehensive overview of the conflict, including its causes, key battles, and its aftermath. This book would serve as a secondary source, providing a more detailed and analytical understanding of the historical event based on primary sources and other scholarly works.

Tertiary Sources

Tertiary sources provide summaries, overviews, and consolidations of primary and secondary sources. Tertiary sources are useful for finding general information and key references. Examples of tertiary sources include encyclopedias, textbooks, and review articles. These sources are typically less focused on in-depth analysis and more geared towards providing quick access to key information and common knowledge on a given topic.

While tertiary sources can be very helpful for getting an overview or key points, they are generally not considered reliable for academic research. Academic standards often do not accept tertiary sources such as encyclopedias as primary citations, although survey articles are frequently cited rather than the original publications. Tertiary sources are best used as aids to help researchers find key and seminal sources or to learn about general common knowledge on a topic.

Conclusion

The study of history is a multifaceted endeavor that requires a broad range of sources to provide a comprehensive understanding. From the personal diaries of historical figures to textbooks and encyclopedias, each type of source serves a unique purpose. While the origins of studying history often revolved around showcasing social status, the modern study of history has evolved to become a valuable tool for understanding the past and its impact on the present. Whether you are a student, a researcher, or simply someone curious about the past, understanding the different types of historical sources is essential for conducting meaningful historical research.