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HSS 531/2 - History of the Middle East: Intro & Reference Sources

Welcome!

Welcome to the History of the Middle East OWHL Guide. Click on a tab above to see all of the relevant sources that are available for this assignment. If you have any questions, please see a librarian at the Help Desk!

Generally, information develops from specific to broad. An event happens, people report on it, people analyze it, and it becomes a part of the historical narrative. Your research sources should move in the opposite direction, from broad to narrow. Start your research in Reference Sources and then find some Secondary Sources which will lead you to Primary Sources!

Why Reference Sources?

  • Offers an introduction to a variety of relevant subjects 
  • Gives an overview of specific events, conflicts and controversies
  • Provides a vocabulary for more complicated searches
  • Identifies important thinkers/writers in the field of study

Reference Databases

Selected Reference Titles

Reference sources give you an overview of your topic. They help you identify alternate key words that will aid you in searching the online catalog and various electronic databases. Also, reference sources often include bibliographies that give suggestions for further reading, which can include books, articles and/or websites. The reference sources listed below are only examples of the books that can be found in the Garver Room (silent study room), there are hundreds of more reference books available.

There is an online resource that can help you find reference books, Reference Universe. Use broad terms like "Women World War II" to get the best results.