Letters and diaries provide a unique perspective on public and private events.  These database collections also offer extensive indexing (use the advanced search to see the many options available).

The American Civil War: Letters and Diaries

British and Irish Women’s Letters and Diaries, from 1500-1900

North American Women’s Letters and Diaries (1700-1950)

North American Immigrant Letters, Diaries, and Oral Histories (1800-1950)

Manuscript Women’s Letters and Diaries: From the American Antiquarian Society, 1750-1950.

These can be searched singly, or together from a common interface:

Social and Cultural History: Letters and Diaries Online.