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Research Guides

HSTRY 498: Race & Radicalism in US History: Primary Sources: Goverment Documents

examples of government documents

Major US Government Documents Databases

Additional Collections of US Government Documents

Government Documents as Historical Evidence

Strengths

  • The Federal Government produces a wide array of publications ranging from Congressional bills, debates, hearings and reports to agency research publications, maps and posters. Plus there is census and statistical data, presidential speeches, scientific studies, propaganda, diplomatic correspondence and more.
     
  • As primary sources these official governmental publications provide insight into all aspects of history from social issues to politics, from cultural mores to scientific endeavor.

Keep in Mind

  • Government documents reflect the biases of the US administration at any given time. 

For more information on using government documents see:  Unpacking Evidence: Official Documents & Learning to Do Historical Research: Government Documents