Evidence Explained summary

Understanding the Importance of Evidence in Research

In Evidence Explained by Elizabeth Shown Mills, the author emphasizes the importance of citing sources in historical research. She argues that all historical evidence is not created equal, and to judge its accuracy, we must understand the nature of the source. Mills introduces the concept of Evidence Analysis, which involves evaluating the quality and reliability of a source before using it as evidence in our research.

Mills also discusses the importance of understanding the context in which a source was created. She emphasizes that the historical context, the creator's background, and the purpose of the source all play a critical role in determining its reliability. She also highlights the need to identify and understand the original record-keeping systems, as they greatly influence the content and structure of the records.

Mastering the Art of Citation

In the next section of Evidence Explained, Mills delves into the art of citation. She explains that the primary purpose of citations is to provide a roadmap for others to locate the sources we used in our research. Mills provides detailed guidelines for citing various types of sources, including traditional print sources, digital media, and non-traditional records such as oral interviews, artifacts, and memorabilia.

She emphasizes the importance of providing complete and accurate citations, as they not only acknowledge the work of others but also enable future researchers to replicate our research. The author also discusses the various citation styles used in historical research, including the Chicago Manual of Style, the Modern Language Association (MLA) Style, and the American Psychological Association (APA) Style.

Deciphering Complex Source Citations

Mills then guides readers through the process of deciphering complex source citations. She explains that many historical records are not straightforward and may require specialized knowledge to interpret. For instance, understanding a census record may require knowledge of the census process, the population being counted, and the geographical area covered.

Similarly, deciphering a land record may require knowledge of the local land laws, surveying methods, and legal terminology. Mills argues that mastering the art of deciphering complex source citations is critical for accurate evidence analysis and proper understanding of historical records.

Applying Evidence Analysis in Genealogical Research

In the latter part of Evidence Explained, Mills applies the principles of evidence analysis to genealogical research. She argues that the same rigorous standards applied to historical research should be applied to genealogical research. She emphasizes the need to critically evaluate each piece of evidence, resolve conflicting information, and reach well-reasoned conclusions.

Mills also discusses the importance of creating a research plan, documenting negative findings, and maintaining a research log. She argues that these practices not only ensure the accuracy of our research but also help us avoid repeating the same mistakes in the future.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Evidence Explained by Elizabeth Shown Mills is an essential guide for anyone involved in historical or genealogical research. The book provides a comprehensive framework for evaluating historical evidence, understanding complex source citations, and applying evidence analysis in our research. By following Mills' guidelines, researchers can ensure the accuracy and reliability of their work, making valuable contributions to our understanding of the past.