US Sources
This page contain many books and websites that we have found useful for finding primary sources about US History. Databases will require you to log in using your UHS username and password. Websites are on the open internet. Books will be found in our library or others.
Databases
- American DecadesPrimary sources from 20th century U.S. history.
- Original Sources This link opens in a new windowOriginal Sources provides primary sources and personal accounts from U.S. and world history about social, political, legal, and religious development, as well as some of the greatest discoveries, insights, and literary achievements in the words of the actual authors, discoverers, and knowledge-seekers.
- U.S. History in Context (requires SFPL card) This link opens in a new windowAfter you've done your search, click on the link for primary sources.
Websites
Finding primary sources in US History is mostly difficult because there are so many that it can be hard to narrow it down to the best one for your project. Here are some great places to start:
- Digital Public Library of America Primary Source SetsSeveral excellent sets of primary sources on a variety of topics from US History from colonizing New York to the rock-n-roll era.
- Internet Modern History SourcebookLook down the list in the left hand navigation bar to find the era/country that you're interested in.
- Library of CongressThe Library of Congress has many primary sources including historical newspapers, prints and photographs, maps and pamphlets.
- Our documentsThe National Archives assembled this site of 100 milestone documents in U.S. History.
- The American Presidency ProjectContains the Presidential Documents Archive.
Books
Finding primary sources in US History is mostly difficult because there are so many that it can be hard to narrow it down to the best one for your project. Here are some great places to start:
- UHS Library List: United States History - Primary SourcesThis list shows many of the primary source books available in our Primary Sources collection which is just opposite the front desk. It also includes links to some online sources. If you don't see what you need, try searching in the library catalog for your topic and 'sources'.
And if you're still drawing a blank, ask Nicole or Hayley for help - we love digging up primary sources!
American Decades: Primary Sources 1900-1999This ten volume set, one for each decade of the 20th century, is available as an ebook or in a print edition in the Library.
