Though they are not primary sources, reference books can help you understand the context of primary sources and give you important names, dates and concepts for further research.
Understanding Medieval Primary Sources
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The New Cambridge Medieval History
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Dictionary of the Middle Ages
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Good for: First hand accounts of European exploration, trade and colonization worldwide using primary sources.
Contains: Manuscripts, maps, illustrated documents, diaries, and ship logs.
Dates covered: 1420-1920.
Good for: Finding primary source records of Native American and indigenous groups in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Contains: Manuscripts, artwork, and rare printed books.
Dates covered: 1400-1950s.
Good for: Reading letters about medieval family life, business, relationships, trade, politics, and community.
Contains: Archive of correspondence.
Dates covered: 1400-1500.
Good for: Studying journeys to central Asia and the Far East.
Contains: Manuscripts from European travelers.
Dates covered: 1200s-1500s.
Good for: Studying significant British historical documents.
Contains: Primary sources like treaties, statutes, declarations, government and cabinet proceedings, plus editorial commentary.
Dates covered: 476-1914.
Lost Letters of Medieval Life
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