Historical documents have become vitally important as sources of data for the study of ethnic groups throughout the world. The enormous quantity of documentary records generated by culture contact and acculturation provide a storehouse of information for the researcher. This documentary evidence includes not only legal papers, government manuscripts, newspapers as well as other written sources, but also maps, photographs, recorded oral traditions, and museum collections. In order for time-efficient and valid studies to take place, a methodological understanding of these documentary forms is essential. -from Editor
