As has been demonstrated in the previous sections, historical fact is not as objective as it may at first appear. All historians make choices as to which people and which events are included or excluded. Once these choices are made, then historians and students are left to interpret these items and fit them into a coherent narrative. In the midst of this apparent confusion, how can a wise student go about gaining a proper understanding of history? One of David Barton’s helpful emphases is the reliance on primary sources. As a result, the Wallbuilders website includes a wide collection of historical documents, available to anyone who is interested.
The introduction to this section of their library begins with the following overview (Source):
Today there are many opinions about America’s Founders and the American Founding, but many of those opinions are wrong. Truth is based on facts, not opinions; original writings and documents help establish facts, and thus truth. In this section you will find original letters, signed works, artifacts, and other primary source material from our Founding Fathers and other significant historical figures. They provide a glimpse into everything from family life to religious faith, and education to politics. Whether it’s things from George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Abigail Adams, or Dwight Eisenhower, you can see originals for yourself.
Though primary sources may at first seem more inaccessible than secondary sources, it is well worth the time it takes to read them and investigate. Secondary sources can be extremely helpful, especially when a full understanding requires contextual knowledge or some type of expertise. For most historical issues, primary sources are not in an American student’s own language and are therefore completely unapproachable without outside aid. However, American history is a notable exception—source documents containing valuable information have been well preserved and are easily accessible for the contemporary student. Therefore, it is the duty of the diligent student to do the sometimes difficult work of studying the primary sources whenever possible. Click the link below to access the Wallbuilders collection as a starting point for your own research. Then watch the following video that includes portions of David Barton’s tour of the United States Capitol, during which Barton demonstrates how primary sources can give us information that some secular voices may be inclined to leave out.
