Newspapers are a primary source providing a first rough draft of events. Since most newspapers are local in scope, there is good coverage of local issues. Newspapers also provide a good feel for the time period.
Most older newspapers do not
include indexing. Usually you will need to browse through issues of a
newspaper to discover its content. Newspapers on microfilm are kept in the Microforms & Newspaper Collections on the ground floor of Suzzallo.
Help: Analyzing Newspapers & Newspapers
Image: Seattle Times, 9 Apr. 1971
When searching any fulltext database such as the New York Times you may find the following strategies useful to narrow your search down to more relevant items.
This is a selection of Washington local newspapers. Most are available on microfilm and are housed in the Microform and Newspaper Collections (mcnews) on the ground floor of Suzzallo Library, others are in print and housed in Special Collections. Please check with mcnews for additional PNW newspapers.
For current newspaper coverage search Access World News and other databases listed on the E-Newspapers & News page.
For "microfilm only" titles, please contact Kian -- flynnk7@uw.edu -- for access options.
For a broader perspective on Seattle you may want to take a look at national sources. The following databases will help you identify 20th century magazine and newspaper articles.