What do the primary sources illustrate about the changing nature of California’s social, political, and/or economic history at the time each source was produced?

For our first essay assignment this semester in California history, you will analyze and interpret primary source historical evidence pre-1900 found through Calisphere
(Links to an external site.)
and/or other instructor approved databases of primary sources linked though CANVAS modules. Keep in mind most of the primary source material I utilize in my pre-recorded lectures comes from Calisphere
(Links to an external site.)
. Primary sources are the raw-stuff historians use to write history. Therefore, you will practice analyzing and interpreting primary source historical evidence. For the draft assignment due in Week 8, focus on analyzing primary source evidence only. You are not expected at the draft stage to utilize any secondary source evidence from Pacific Eldorado, lecture notes, or other secondary sources provided by your professor through CANVAS, or available through the BC Library webpage.
Directions
Consider modules during weeks 1-8, as well as the various links I’ve posted throughout each module linking to Calisphere
(Links to an external site.)
primary sources (or other primary source links I use in the modules). Generally, the modular content can be divided into the following chronological and thematic eras: Native California, Spanish California, Mexican California, Gold Rush California, Era of Statehood, California 1850-1900. Thinking about the primary sources available within Calisphere
(Links to an external site.)
throughout these different eras, complete the following task below.
Select any set of at least 3-5 primary sources, visual and/or textual, from the Calisphere
(Links to an external site.)
database, using only primary source material pre-1900. Once you have selected your primary sources, answer the following question(s) in a five-paragraph essay format:
What do the primary sources illustrate about the changing nature of California’s social, political, and/or economic history at the time each source was produced? What historical themes are significant in your view based on the evidence? In what ways does the primary source evidence illustrate change over time?
Formatting Requirements
Your essay should be written in a five-paragraph essay format. That means you need a clear introduction with a thesis statement that introduces the reader to the source evidence you plan to discuss. Do not list the evidence in your introduction. You can cite the evidence fully in your footnotes or endnotes. Rather, introduce the reader to the topics & evidence you intend to discuss.

Last Completed Projects