Your grandparents lived through things you’ll read about in textbooks. They’re primary sources with snacks.

The people at your family table were present for events that now come with footnotes. A textbook gives you the summary, while they can tell you what that week actually felt like, what the news sounded like, what got said in the kitchen. That access expires, and no library replaces it.

Pick one event you have studied and ask an older relative where they were for it. Record the answer on your phone while they are talking.