Digital Collections Online
These are just a sample of the many online primary source collections related to the Civil War. An online search for civil war primary sources will point you to many other options as well.
- The Southern Homefront, 1861-1865This collection includes over four hundred Civil War era maps, broadsides, photographs, printed works, Confederate currency, and manuscript letters and diaries.
- Abraham Lincoln from The American Presidency ProjectScroll down to "Related Documents" to find addresses, proclamations, and executive orders.
- Civil War Photographs from the National ArchivesSelected Civil War photographs covering a variety of subjects including army life, civilians, engineering, prisons and prisoners, portraits and more.
Published Collections of Primary Sources
These are a few examples of the books available through the library with transcribed and/or translated primary sources. Use the Find It @ USC Libraries catalog to search for additional collections.
I Remain Yours: Common Lives in Civil War LettersCall Number: Ebook available online
The Emancipation Proclamation: a brief history with documentsCall Number: E453 .V66 2010
Library Subscription Resources
Available to USC students through the library, these databases all include some primary source materials related to slavery and/or the Transatlantic slave trade.
- American History (1493-1945) from the Gilder Lehrman Institute This link opens in a new windowA unique collection of primary source documents, including correspondence, diaries, government documents, business records, books, pamphlets, newspapers, broadsides, photographs, artwork and maps.
- Civil War in Words and Deeds This link opens in a new windowDigitized collection of regimental histories and personal narratives, compiled in the postwar period and the early 20th century, chronicle the highs and lows of army life from 1861 through 1865.
- Illustrated Civil War Newspapers and Magazines This link opens in a new windowFull page views. Limit searches to sources sympathetic to Confederacy or Union or to a 1860 or 1864 presidential candidate.