For online research, the following sources might be considered valid:
- The National Archives - This is a reputable source containing primary documents and historical records.
- A weblog of a college history professor about her area of specialty - This can provide valuable insights and expert analysis, especially if the professor is recognized in the field.
- A .gov website - Government websites typically provide reliable information, particularly regarding policies, official statistics, and public records.
The following sources may be less reliable or require careful scrutiny:
- A weblog of a guy who describes himself as a “history nerd” - The author's credentials and the accuracy of the information would need to be verified.
- A Wikipedia article - While Wikipedia can be a good starting point for research, it is not considered a reliable source for academic work since its content can be edited by anyone.
- A .org website that was last updated in 2008 - The age of the information raises questions about its relevance and accuracy unless the content remains applicable.
- A .com website with its own online store - This may lack credibility due to potential bias, as the site may prioritize selling products over providing factual information.
- A website with claims that you can’t verify at another source - Claims that cannot be verified are not reliable and should be approached with skepticism.
In summary, for valid sources, focus on the National Archives, the college history professor's weblog, and the .gov website.
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