Citing Sources In William Robertson's Book 'The History Of America'

Historians often use other historians research as examples and evidence within their work. Citing sources provide clarity on a topic, or further supports the historian’s claim. However, there are a plethora of calculations and processes one must go through to determine the validity of a single source. The author’s background, citations, content of the material, and objectivity are all items that must be considered when determining whether a source is relevant and a good source to cite. William Robertson’s book titled, “The History of America” volume III book v, will be used to further convey validity of scholarly works, and demonstrate how a source merits value for a historian. This book was written at the end of the 1700’s; therefore, historians
could argue it as an unreliable source due to it being old, and the information presented in the volume was based on previously known sources. However, Robertson’s historical book still holds value for historians. Willian Robertson was a well-respected Churchman and a historian. Graduating from Edinburgh University in Scotland, he was a key figure of the Scottish Enlightenment. As a historian, Robertson wrote a multivolume historical investigation called, “The History of America.” In regards to his qualifications as a historian of Spanish society, he is a member of the royal academy of history at Madrid. Also, during the creation of the book, Robertson spent five years studying and researching in Madrid. Through his credentials, Robertson does prove to be well educated on the subject matter; and, therefore, can be viewed as an expert in the field. Critiques of Robertson’s books can argue them as unqualified sources to cite.
Due to the book being old, and information discovered after its publication were not included in his work, “The History of America” lacks certain sources more recent publications would include. Therefore, Robertson’s book could be viewed as an unreliable source. However, the sources Robertson used are reliable. He stated, “It is a duty I owe the public to mention the sources from which I have derived such intelligence as justifies me either in placing transactions in a new light, or in forming any new opinion with respect to their causes and effects.” Robertson then explained the sources he used in his investigation, and how they were credible sources. Therefore, while new information is missing from Robertson’s book, he still used respectable sources, further demonstrating the validity of his work for scholars
today. Through the inquiry of Robertson’s sources, he was able to contain enormous amounts of information regarding the conquest the Spanish undertook in America. In volume III, Robertson spent over one hundred pages depicting and elaborating on Cortez’ conquest of Mesoamerica. After deliberating Cortez’ actions, Robertson indulged in Pissarro’s conquest of the Inca Empire for almost two hundred pages. Both of these investigations display extensive knowledge and corroboration with other historical works about Spanish conquest. Therefore, Robertson’s book should not be discredited due to historical fallacies. The final way a source losses credibility is by displaying extreme bias and the author does not remain objective.
Robertson stayed true to his objective and only shows slight bias. An unfair representation of the Native Americans was conveyed when Robertson called the Indians savages. Yet, he supported his claim by illustrating the Indian’s savage behaviors later in the text. While displaying the Indian’s savage behavior, he did not thoroughly examine their culture; and therefore, showed slight bias in his work. However, it does not diminish Robertson’s overall objectivity. Robertson’s books are indeed old, and scrutiny does have merit for not considering his work as a reliable source due to the information and citations not being current. However, “The History of America” is still regarded as a reliable source for historians to use when researching the Spanish conquest of America. Robertson’s background, historical expertise on Spanish history, use of ample amounts of historical sources, factual material, and objectivity prove his work as a trustworthy source. Therefore, it is still valuable
today.