Unlocking the Past: A Comprehensive Guide to Citing History Sources

History is a tapestry woven from a multitude of sources, each piece adding depth and nuance to our understanding of the past. Delve into this comprehensive guide and master the art of citing history sources, from ancient artifacts to the vast expanse of cyberspace.

Evidence Explained: Citing History Sources from Artifacts to Cyberspace: 3rd edition

by Elizabeth Shown Mills

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	9942 KB
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Print length	:	207 pages

FREE

Navigating the Labyrinth of Artifact Citation

Artifacts, tangible relics of the past, offer invaluable insights into bygone eras. When citing archaeological or historical artifacts, accuracy is paramount. Include the following elements:

• Object Name: Specify the artifact's name, such as "Roman Legionary Helmet" or "Egyptian Scarab."
• Museum or Institution: Identify where the artifact is housed, such as "British Museum" or "Louvre Museum."
• Catalog Number (if available): Provide the unique identifier assigned to the artifact for easy retrieval.
• Date Range (if known): Indicate the approximate time period in which the artifact was created or used.

Example: Roman Legionary Helmet, British Museum, Catalog Number: BM 1234, 1st century CE.

Unveiling the Secrets of Manuscript Citation

Manuscripts, handwritten or typed documents, provide a glimpse into the thoughts and ideas of history's thinkers. When citing manuscripts, adhere to these guidelines:

• Manuscript Title: Clearly state the title of the manuscript or document.
• Author (if known): Identify the individual responsible for creating the manuscript.
• Repository: Specify the institution or library where the manuscript is located.
• Manuscript Reference: Provide the unique identifier or call number assigned to the manuscript.
• Date Range (if known): Indicate the approximate time period in which the manuscript was created.

Example: Magna Carta, Author: Unknown, Repository: British Library, Reference: Cotton MS Augustus II 106, 1215 CE.

Taming the Wild West of Digital Source Citation

In the digital age, a vast array of historical sources are available online. Citing these sources requires meticulous attention to detail:

• Title of the Online Source: Specify the title or name of the digital resource.
• Author or Creator (if available): Identify the individual or organization responsible for creating the resource.
• Website or Platform: Indicate the name of the website or platform where the resource is hosted.
• URL: Provide the complete web address of the resource, including the "https://" prefix.
• Access Date: Note the date on which you accessed the resource.

Example: The Federalist Papers, Author: Alexander Hamilton, James Madison, John Jay, Website: Avalon Project, URL: https://avalon.law.yale.edu/18th_century/fed.asp, Accessed: March 5, 2023.

Exploring the Nuances of Secondary Source Citation

Secondary sources provide interpretations and analyses of historical events and topics. When citing secondary sources:

• Book: Follow the format for citing books, including author, title, publisher, publication date, and page numbers.
• Journal Article: Provide the author, title of the article, journal name, volume, issue, and page numbers.
• Documentary Film: Include the title of the film, director, production company, and release date.

Choosing the Right Citation Style

Various citation styles exist, each with its own set of rules and conventions. Select the style required by your discipline or publication guidelines. Common styles include:

• Chicago Manual of Style: Widely used in history, the arts, and humanities.
• Modern Language Association (MLA) Style: Predominant in literary studies and the social sciences.
• American Psychological Association (APA) Style: Favored in the social and behavioral sciences.

Consistency and Attention to Detail

Accuracy and consistency are crucial when citing history sources. Pay meticulous attention to the following:

• Capitalization: Follow the rules of the chosen citation style for capitalizing titles, names, and other elements.
• Punctuation: Use commas, parentheses, and other punctuation marks according to the style guidelines.
• Quotations: Use quotation marks or indentation to indicate direct quotes from sources.

Mastering the art of citing history sources empowers researchers and writers to navigate the complexities of the historical landscape. By adhering to the guidelines outlined in this comprehensive guide, you can ensure the accuracy and credibility of your historical research, unlocking the past with confidence.

Evidence Explained: Citing History Sources from Artifacts to Cyberspace: 3rd edition

by Elizabeth Shown Mills

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	9942 KB
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Print length	:	207 pages

FREE