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Research Guides

AIS370/HSTAA315: Researching Indians' History - spr 2014: Primary Sources: Government

Why Use Government Documents

The Federal Government produces a wide array of publications ranging from Congressional bills, debates, hearings and reports to agency research publications, maps and posters. Plus there is census and statistical data, presidential speeches, scientific studies, propaganda, diplomatic correspondence and more.

For Native American history, government documents are an essential primary source. Includes documents by the Bureau of Indian Affairs and its predecessor the Office of Indian Affairs.


As primary sources these official governmental publications provide insight into all aspects of history from social issues to politics, from cultural mores to scientific endeavor.

Help: Unpacking Evidence: Official Documents & Learning to Do Historical Research: Government Documents

Image: Indian disturbances in Oregon and Washington. Message from the President of the United States, transmitting a communication from the Secretary of the Interior, in relation to Indian disturbances in the Territories of Oregon and Washington. March 10, 1856.

Government Documents

Many federal government publications are included in UW Worldcat. For help on finding government reports, check with the staff at Government Publications located on the ground floor of Suzzallo Library.

For additional sources of US government information see the guide for US Federal Government Resources.