Local History Research Guide

Step 2:
Find Background Information

The items listed below will help you locate subtopics to narrow your focus. They will also help you gain an understanding of the scope of your topic. Keep an eye out for the names of authorities or scholars who are specialists on your particular topic. Pay close attention to the terminology of your topic. This will be useful as you attempt to interpret sources. Let the bibliographies guide you to more resources. Make good use of the indexes.

Atlases and Maps

Chronologies

County Histories

Historic Sites

Local History Guides

State Historical Societies Online

Local History Research
Strategy Steps:

Guide Introduction
Choose a Topic
Find Background Information
Narrow Your Topic and Form a Research Question
Find Research Materials
Evaluate and Cite Sources
Formulate a Thesis Statement
Write the Paper


BYU History Department

© Harold B. Lee Library, Brigham Young University
Send comments to Mike Hunter, 1224 HBLL
Brigham Young University, Provo, UT 84602
Updated: Wednesday, 6 March 2002