About Discovering Historical Sources

Focusing on migration and the British Empire, this project supports the migration thematic study offered by GCSE exam boards, as well as the Key Stage 3 curriculum and selected A-level units.

The experiences of marginalised groups – such as women, working-class people, ethnically diverse communities and colonised peoples – have often been excluded from mainstream historical narratives. Discovering Historical Sources aims to recover these voices by examining sources not only for what they contain, but also for what they omit or leave unsaid. By reading these sources critically, students can explore new perspectives and develop essential historical skills.

Developed in close consultation with historians, the resource presents the latest scholarship in an accessible way through expert articles, timelines and short films that bring historical sources to life. Teaching enquiries and student activities, written by specialist educators, provide guidance on ways to develop students’ historical understanding and their ability to work with sources.

Sources are drawn from the Library’s extensive collections and include documents from the India Office Records, maps, printed books, periodicals, manuscripts, artworks, oral testimonies, photographs, newspapers and various forms of ephemera. There are also selected materials from other museums and archives.

We are immensely grateful to a wide network of historians, educators and colleagues from cultural organisations who have provided rich articles, invaluable advice and support with content review.

Please note, some sources include material that could be considered discriminatory, offensive or distressing, and are accompanied by a content guidance statement.

In 2023 the Library experienced a significant cyber-attack that disrupted many of our services. Currently only a small selection of our digital resources is available, via the Padlet platform. We are working to restore full functionality and launch more resources.

Discovering Historical Sources has been generously supported by Garfield Weston Foundation since its inception. With thanks also to Charles and Nicola Manby, The American Trust for the British Library, The Allan and Nesta Ferguson Charitable Trust and PF Charitable Trust and other supporters who wish to remain anonymous.