Encyclopedias and and other reference works provide background information and can be used to identify key people, events and dates which can then be used as search terms for finding additional information. More importantly, because encyclopedias often cover the major issues surrounding the subect, they can help you narrow your research from a broad "who, what, where, when" topic to a "how or why" question. In addition many encyclopedia articles include short bibliographies that will lead you to the major works on the topic.
This is just a selection of some history-related encyclopedias, for others please search the UW Libraries Catalog or contact a reference librarian. The books listed here are located in Suzzallo Reference, first floor Suzzallo Library. Additional copies may be found in other UW Libraries branches.
Two searchable collections of encyclopedias are 
Gale Virtual Reference and Oxford Reference Online.
| Encyclopedias | Chronologies | Biographical Dictionaries | Historical Statistics | Historical Atlases |
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The chronologies listed here are located in Suzzallo Reference, first floor Suzzallo Library. Many specialized encyclopedias also include chronologies.
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There are hundreds of biographical dictionaries available in the UW Libraries covering various nations and subjects. Many of the history encyclopedias listed earlier also contain biographies. To search for brief biographies use Biography & Genealogy Master Index and World Biographical Information System.
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The small selection of historical atlases listed here can be found in the Map Library in the basement of Suzzallo. Additonal historical atlases and maps can be found in other library locations.
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