How do you analyse a primary source?

The easiest way to analyse a primary source (a source from the time period you are studying) is to remember the 4 Ws:

WHAT: What type of source is this? A letter, a picture, a diary entry?
WHEN: When was it written? Recently, 100 years ago, during a war or significant event?
WHO: Who wrote it? A king, a peasant, a rebel? 
WHY: Why do you think they produced this source? To inform, to persuade, to mislead? 

JS

Related History GCSE answers

All answers ▸

What were the main aims of the “Big 3” leaders involved in the Treaty of Versailles of 1919 and how happy were they with the end result?


Give examples of two tactics the Nazis used to increase their support between 1924-29?


Why do you think Roosevel wanted artists and photographers to be employed under the New Deal?


How do I analyse a historical source?