Background Information
Reference sources (also called background sources or background information) are helpful when beginning the research process. They can give you a working knowledge of the subject area and introduce you to important names, facts, issues, and other concepts related to your topic. These key terms will come in handy when you begin searching databases for secondary source literature.
Credo Reference
Find background information using Credo, an alternative to Wikipedia with reliable information from published reference books. Search over 170 history reference titles, including encyclopedias, dictionaries, biographies, and chronologies.
Atlases & Maps
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David Rumsey Map CollectionHuge private collection of over 70,000 digitized items focusing on rare 16th through 21st century maps of North and South America. Historic maps of Asia, Africa, Europe, Oceania, and the World are also provided.
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University of Texas Perry-Castañeda Library Map CollectionFrom University of Texas at Austin, the site offers a useful collection of various types of maps covering all regions of the world, including historical maps and atlases. The site also offers an extensive list of links to other online historical maps.
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Old Maps OnlineGIS-powered search engine that serves as a gateway to digitized historical maps in libraries around the world. Mobile app also available for Android and iOS devices.