Primary sources are from the perspective of somebody who experienced an event firsthand, whereas secondary sources are gathered from one or numerous primary sources. Secondary sources can be an encyclopedia or a history book--both of which are helpful when learning about the past. Readers engage with various secondary sources throughout the volume, as they grasp the similarities and differences between primary and secondary sources and the ways that both are important to study. Fascinating photographs are paired with accessible text to enhance the reading experience, as readers continue to explore the social studies curriculum outside the classroom.