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Value Of Primary Sources As Historical Sources

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The Value of Primary Documents as Historical Sources Where does historical information come from and how do we decide on its validity and authenticity? From the days of oral records through to the current glut of information, history has never written itself – that has been the role of the historians of the time. All our information about past records and conditions is derived from evidence or sources, and the nature of these sources can often be highly contestable, particularly in relation to dominant views and interpretations of the past in relation to empires and imperialism. The histories have often been written by the victors, so the view presented in secondary sources can be biased. This points to the importance of primary evidence as …show more content…

These documents vary from warfare to culture and include propaganda, maps and artworks. Their usefulness as evidence stems from the span of time and geopolitical aspects, taking in Napoleon’s influence in the Americas, Western Europe and Russia, and exposing the significance the “Napoleonic phenomenon”. In contrast to lengthy, scholarly secondary sources, Blaufarb’s anthology offers an incisive view of the French leader in all his political and ideological contexts, with the introduction giving an expert’s insight to “reading” the material. His position as the Director of the Institute on Napoleon and the French Revolution at Florida State University, combined with his long list of publications on revolutionary and Napoleonic France, places him as an eminent scholar with no particular axe to grind. The scope of the sources he provides show the good, the bad and the ugly of Napoleon’s life making this collection essential in the selection and critical analysis of primary sources relating to the French …show more content…

In addition to the easy “readability” of these sources, the skills involved in decoding and analysing political cartoons develops vital critical and creative thinking competencies. Not only to they develop essential skills, but cartoons also provide a viable alternative for struggling readers when it comes to evidence. Where they may be discouraged by text sources, the visual appeal can make the source more appealing and accessible. By encouraging the development of visual literacy in this setting, students can see the value in real-world applications as cartoons are still used in newspapers/magazines. Political cartoons particularly provide us with a sense of the ironic commentary and public sentiment. This cartoon is a valuable source as it clearly shows the contrast from the early heroic period to the downfall of the

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