American History

One of the reasons to study secondary readings in addition to primary documents is to appreciate that “history” is always a product of interpretation, and not merely a description of facts.  This is why historians typically write with one eye toward the past, and one eye towards other historians, because they commonly dispute with each other over their differing interpretations of the past.  Like history itself, therefore, the writing of history is constantly changing.

Because the writing of history involves interpretation, not “truth,” it is important to think critically as you evaluate secondary readings for the arguments they offer, the points they make, and the evidence they provide.  As you read a secondary reading, keep in mind the following questions:

1.  What is the basic subject?  Who, what, when, and where?

2.  In one simple sentence, what is the central argument?  In the academic discipline of history, arguments often revolve around explaining a process of historical change within a finite period of time.  Also, historians typically try to offer an interpretation of the past that has been overlooked by other historians.

3.  What kinds of evidence are used?  For instance, government records?  Business records?  Religious records?  Published books?  Newspaper articles?  Personal letters?  Visual materials?

4.  What are the main points used to organize and discuss the evidence?  Together, do these main points and all the evidence fulfill the central argument?  Is it convincing?

5.  Is it interesting?  Does it seem relevant to you?  Does it seem important to think about?