Welcome to National History Day Online Research Tools, a program designed to help students and historians in their quest for knowledge about the rich history of the United States. Since its inception, National History Day has been a great resource for exploring various topics, including civil rights movements, wars, social policies, and the contributions of individuals from different backgrounds.
Today, we are fortunate to have a wide range of online tools and resources at our fingertips, allowing us to dive deep into the past and examine the events and people that have shaped our world. These tools include databases, archives, search engines, and digitized collections which allow us to access primary sources, articles, images, and more.
In this post, we will examine some of the best online research tools and resources available for studying and writing about important periods in American history. We will cover topics such as the colonial period (1607-1754), the American Revolution (1777-1788), the Civil War (1861-1865), the Reconstruction era (1865-1898), World War I and II (1914-1945), the Cold War (1945-1980), and the contemporary issues we face today.
Whether you are researching the abolitionists who fought for the rights of enslaved individuals, the suffragettes who fought for women’s rights, the civil rights leaders who fought against segregation, or the LGBTQ+ activists who fought for equality and inclusivity – the resources in this article will help you gain a deeper understanding of their struggles and triumphs.
From the writings of influential figures like Maria Stewart and Wood Maria Stewart, to the experiences of Asian, African American, Latino, and Native American communities, this examination of various national and regional histories will help you gain a true appreciation for the diversity and complexity of our nation’s past. So let’s dive in and explore the vast array of resources and tools available to us as students, historians, and curious individuals.
National History Day Online Research Tools
Exploring Historical Periods
One of the most important aspects of historical research is understanding the different eras and events that shaped the United States. From the American Revolution in 1775 to the present day, there have been significant policies, wars, and innovations that have influenced the nation’s history. By exploring online resources, you can dig deep into specific time periods and examine their impact on society.
For example, you can learn about the period from 1789 to 1865–1898, where the nation went through dramatic changes such as the abolition of slavery and the Civil War. You can also explore the 1801 to 1865–1898 era, during which significant events like the Louisiana Purchase and the Emancipation Proclamation took place.
Recommended Online Resources
When it comes to online resources for historical research, there are a few websites that historians most commonly recommend. One of these is the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) website, which provides access to a wide range of documents and images related to U.S. history. NARA is a valuable resource for finding primary sources and learning about the lives of Americans throughout different time periods.
Another recommended resource is the Library of Congress website, which houses a vast collection of digitized materials including maps, photographs, and documents. The Library of Congress is an excellent tool for researching various topics, from immigration and philanthropy to food and innovation.
The Legacy of Important Figures
Throughout history, there have been individuals who left a lasting legacy on the nation. By conducting online research, you can delve into the lives of these influential figures and learn more about their impact on society. For example, you can explore the life of Maria Mitchell, the first professional female astronomer in the United States, or study the presidency of Harry S. Truman, who made significant decisions during the post-World War II period.
Examining Social Issues
In addition to exploring specific periods and studying important figures, online research tools can also help you understand social issues in U.S. history. For example, you can examine the disability rights movement from the 1980s to the present or learn about the 112th Congress, which saw the passing of various policies. You can also explore topics such as women’s rights and the fight for racial equality.
Overall, by utilizing online research tools, historians and National History Day participants can gather valuable content and forge a deeper understanding of the nation’s history. Whether you’re interested in a specific period, a significant document, or a social issue, these tools will provide you with the necessary resources to conduct thorough research and build a strong historical narrative.
Exploring the Best Resources for Historical Research
- National History Day Online Library: This digital library provides an extensive collection of primary and secondary sources on a wide range of historical topics. It is an excellent starting point for any research project.
- Library of Congress: As the largest library in the world, the Library of Congress offers a vast array of resources, including books, manuscripts, maps, photographs, and digitized documents. Its online catalog and digital collections are invaluable for researchers.
- Academic Journals: These publications are a valuable source of scholarly research and analysis. Journals like the Journal of American History, the American Historical Review, and the Journal of Social History publish high-quality articles on various historical topics.
- Online Archives: Many institutions, such as universities, museums, and government organizations, have digitized their archives and made them available online. These archives include letters, diaries, photographs, and other primary sources that offer unique glimpses into the past.
- Digital History Websites: Websites like Digital History and History Matters provide curated collections of primary and secondary sources, interactive exhibits, and educational materials. They offer a wealth of information for both students and researchers.
- Newspaper Archives: Online newspaper archives, such as ProQuest Historical Newspapers and Chronicling America, allow researchers to explore historical events from the perspective of the time. They provide valuable insights into the social, political, and cultural context of the past.
By utilizing these resources, researchers can build a solid foundation of knowledge and uncover new insights into historical events, cultures, and individuals. Whether exploring the abolitionist movements of the 1840–1877 or the LGBTQ rights revolution from 1945–1980, these tools will prove invaluable in conducting thorough and accurate historical research.
Religion
During the early colonial period (1491–1607), religion was a central part of everyday life in the American colonies. The Puritans, who arrived in the New England colonies in 1620, sought to build a society based on their religious values. As such, religion played a crucial role in the lives of these early settlers.
Fast forward to the 18th century, and religion continued to be a dominant force in American society. The First Great Awakening, which took place from the 1730s to the 1740s, sparked a religious revival that had a profound impact on both religious and secular life in the colonies. This period saw a rise in evangelicalism and a shift towards a more individualistic approach to religion.
The Role of Religion in the Revolutionary Period (1765–1789)
The Rise of Religious Activism in the 19th Century (1789–1865)
The 19th century saw a rise in religious activism and reform movements. People in the United States became increasingly concerned with issues such as slavery, women’s rights, and temperance. Religion played a vital role in these movements, providing moral guidance and fueling the desire for social change.
Religion in the Mid-20th Century (1865–1945)
Religion in the Contemporary Period (1945–1980 to Present)
In recent decades, religion has remained a prevalent force in American society. The ongoing debate over issues such as abortion, LGBTQ rights, and religious freedom highlights the continued importance of religion in shaping public discourse and influencing political decisions.
Discovering Key Online Tools for Religious Historical Research
1. National History Day Online Research Tools
The National History Day Online Research Tools platform offers a wide range of resources for historical research, including those focused on religious history. Here, you’ll find curated collections of primary and secondary sources, exhibits, documentaries, and essays that cover different aspects of religious history. It’s a valuable starting point to learn about the histories, beliefs, and cultural impact of different religious groups.
2. Digital Public Library of America (DPLA)
The Digital Public Library of America is a vast digital collection that provides access to an extensive range of historical documents, including those related to religious history. You can search their collection for texts, images, maps, and more, allowing you to explore religious histories from different regions and time periods. The DPLA is an excellent resource to examine primary sources related to religious practices, beliefs, and influences.
3. JSTOR
JSTOR is a well-known digital library that hosts academic journals, books, and primary sources on various subjects, including religious history. By searching specific keywords or topics related to religious history, you can access a wealth of scholarly articles and books that delve into the intricacies of different religious movements, practices, and beliefs. JSTOR is particularly useful for in-depth research and academic analysis.
4. Digital Archive of American Architecture
The Digital Archive of American Architecture provides a unique perspective on the intersection of religion and architecture. Through its vast collection of photographs and architectural drawings, you can explore religious structures and their historical significance. This resource allows you to examine how religious beliefs and practices influenced architectural styles and trends throughout different time periods.
5. Internet Archive
The Internet Archive is a digital library that offers access to millions of books, movies, music, and websites. It contains a wealth of content related to religious history, including texts on religious doctrines, historical accounts of religious events, and religious texts from different faith traditions. The Internet Archive is an invaluable resource for researching specific religious texts and understanding their significance within their respective religious contexts.
By utilizing these online tools, you can develop a comprehensive understanding of religious history, including its impact on culture, politics, social rights, and more. Remember to critically analyze the sources you find, check for accuracy and credibility, and use your research skills to uncover the untold stories and legacies of religious communities throughout history.
FAQ
What are the best online research tools for historical research?
Some of the best online research tools for historical research include websites like JSTOR, Google Books, and ProQuest Historical Newspapers. These platforms provide access to a wide range of primary and secondary sources that are essential for conducting thorough historical research.
What is JSTOR and how can it be useful for historical research?
JSTOR is a digital library that provides access to a vast collection of academic journals, books, and primary sources in various disciplines, including history. It can be useful for historical research as it allows researchers to access historical documents, articles, and books from reputable sources, enabling them to analyze multiple perspectives and gain a deeper understanding of a particular historical event or topic.
How can Google Books be helpful for historical research?
Google Books is a platform that provides access to a vast collection of digitized books from libraries and publishers around the world. It can be helpful for historical research as it allows researchers to search for keywords or specific phrases within books, which can lead them to relevant information and primary sources. It also provides the option to preview or access full-text versions of books, depending on their availability.
What are some recommended online databases for historical newspaper research?
ProQuest Historical Newspapers is one of the recommended online databases for historical newspaper research. It provides access to digitized newspapers from various time periods, allowing researchers to explore primary sources and gain insights into specific historical events or time periods. Other recommended databases for historical newspaper research include NewspaperArchive and Chronicling America.
Are there any prerequisites for using these online research tools?
While there are no specific prerequisites for using online research tools for historical research, it is beneficial for researchers to have a basic understanding of the research topic and the research process. It is also important to have critical thinking skills to evaluate the reliability and credibility of the sources accessed through these tools. Additionally, knowing how to effectively search for information and navigate the platforms can enhance the research process.
What are the best online research tools for historical research?
The best online research tools for historical research include databases such as JSTOR, Google Scholar, and ProQuest. These databases provide access to a wide range of scholarly articles, primary sources, and other valuable research materials.
Is it necessary to have prior knowledge of historical research before using online research tools?
It is not necessary to have prior knowledge of historical research before using online research tools, but having some understanding of how to effectively search for and evaluate sources can greatly improve the research process. It is recommended to have a basic understanding of how to formulate research questions, search for relevant keywords, and critically analyze sources.
