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Individual Databases
Unless otherwise noted, these resources are available on all Chicago Public Library computers or on non-Library computers with your Chicago Public Library card.
American National Biography »
American National Biography Online contains substantial biographical articles on more than 18,000 deceased American men and women from all eras and walks of life as well as selected non-nationals (for example, Casimir Pulaski) who had a profound influence on American history. All biographical articles include evaluative bibliographies that guide the reader in further research. Also included are articles from The Oxford Companion to American History.
Biography in Context » teen pick
Find full-text biographical information on over half a million people from all periods of history and from every geographical region. The database includes (1) articles from numerous biographical encyclopedias and reference works, (2) images and (3) magazine and newspaper articles that provide supplemental information on recent events in a person’s life. Search for information on a particular person by name or, using the Person Search, create lists of people based on nationality, ethnicity, occupation, gender or date of birth or death.
World Book for Students » kid friendly teen pick
This general encyclopedia includes thousands of biographies of famous persons. Search by name or use the Biography Center to search by profession, gender, nationality, ethnicity or era.
Additional Resources
Biographical entries also may be found in many of our subject-specific sources, including: