Ethnography Research
Below are some resources you can use to research the history of a particular nationality, culture, or region of people. Using databases and reference sources like these can help you find more targeted results.
- Cassell's Peoples, Nations and CulturesClear, concise and readable histories of peoples, nations, and cultures, including the inhabitants of present-day nation-states (Americans, French); minority peoples within these (Sorbs in Germany, Basques in Spain); peoples dispersed over a number of nation-states (Kurds, Jews); significant cultural but non-ethnic groupings (Maronite Christians in the Levant); and extinct peoples (Alans, Goths).
- HRAF World Cultures This link opens in a new windowThe Human Relations Area File provides access to articles and ethnographic field notes (some historical) on all aspects of cultural and social life of specific ethnic groups.
- Encyclopedia of World CulturesProvides descriptions of all the cultures of each region of the world or of a representative sample of cultures for regions where full coverage is impossible, as well as accurate descriptions of cultures of the past. 1996 edition.
- Encyclopedia of Latin American History and CultureProvides a multidisciplinary view of Latin American history and culture from prehistoric times to the present. Covers cultural issues and includes biographical profiles of important figures in politics, letters and the arts. 2nd edition (2008).
Additional Research Guides
Here are some additional Research Guides (created by other librarians) that you can use to further research your selected population.
Reference & Instruction Librarian
Creator Credit
This guide was originally created by Christine McClure, MLIS.