Generally, a weblog (or blog) by an individual, even one who describes himself as a "history nerd," may not be considered a valid or reliable source for academic or formal online research. While the author's passion for history may lead to interesting insights or interpretations, blogs often lack the rigorous peer review process that scholarly articles and credible publications undergo.
However, the legitimacy of the blog as a source can depend on several factors:
- Credentials: Does the author have relevant expertise or qualifications in history?
- Citations: Does the blog reference credible sources or provide citations for its information?
- Content Quality: Is the information presented well-researched, well-written, and free of significant errors?
- Audience and Purpose: Is the blog intended for an academic audience, or is it more casual and personal in nature?
If the blog meets high standards of scholarship and credibility, it may be used as a supplementary source, but it's advisable to rely on more authoritative sources for rigorous academic work.