Introduction
There are numerous sources available for people doing biographical research. General reference sources might cover the lives of prominent people throughout history, or give information about important people from a particular country. More specific reference sources might describe the achievements of African Americans, women, or the members of a particular profession such as educators or scientists.
There are several things to consider when you are looking for biographical information and choosing a source.
- What type of information do you need? Basic information (like birth and death dates) or an in-depth essay about the person with a list of other resources to consult?
- Do you want direct information about the person or do you want a list of resources to consult?
- Is the person you are researching alive or dead?
- In what field (politics, business, writing) is/was this person active?
Read the brief descriptions of the sources listed below with these questions in mind and you'll be more likely to choose a source that will suit your needs.
(This content was adapted from: Biographical Resources by Teaching, Learning, and Academic Support)
Biography Resources
- Who's Who in Rock Music byCall Number: MPAL Reference Non-circulating - ML102.R6 Y671982More than 12,00 entries cover virtually every group that ever recorded a rock album, and every individual who performed on a rock recording, from the beginnings of rock through 1981
- The Rock Who's Who byCall Number: MPAL Reference Non-circulating - ML102.R6 H241996Published in 1066, this tool includes a listing of rock musicians and groups, with entries that include the date and place of birth of each artist, a brief history of the musical career of each individual or group, and a discography of albums released.
- American National Biography This link opens in a new windowBiographical dictionary of notable American men and women from all eras of American history who are no longer alive. Includes illustrations and hypertext links to other web resources.
- Oxford African American Studies Center This link opens in a new windowMajor reference works, along with supplementary primary source material.
- Biography.comOnline directory of biographical information for over 25,000 people. Information is stronger for current icons, but some historical figures are also available.
- Biography and Genealogy Master Index This link opens in a new windowIncludes over 13.6 million biographical sketches indexed, obtained from approximately 100-150 volumes and editions of 60-90 biographical dictionaries, including new titles as well as new editions of previously indexed sources.
- Biography In Context This link opens in a new windowGale Biography in Context is a comprehensive database of biographical information on over 528,000 people from throughout history, around the world, and across all disciplines and subject areas.
- Marquis Who's Who This link opens in a new windowMarquis Biographies Online, a 'high-speed', searchable online database, features comprehensive profiles on over 1,444,914 million of the most accomplished individuals from all fields of endeavor including: government, business, science and technology, the arts, entertainment, and sports. Search by name, gender, occupation, geography, hobbies and interests, religion and much more.
For more resources, consult: