How do I cite primary sources in a research paper?

This depends partially on the format of the source. The essential elements to include are the author or creator name (if known), the title of the work, format of the work, publication information, if applicable (place, company, and date), and the source of your document (e.g. a collection of private papers, museum, library archive, etc.). Include a URL if you found the document online. For example: Franklin, Benjamin. “Join or Die.” Illustration. The Pennsylvania Gazette, May 9, 1754. From Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division.