What is a "primary source"?

A "primary source" is defined as an original document or firsthand account of an event. This can include materials such as letters, interviews, diaries, photographs, and official records, which provide direct evidence or firsthand testimonies regarding a particular topic or event. These sources offer insight into the time period and context in which they were created, making them invaluable for research and understanding historical events.

In contrast, the other options describe sources that interpret or analyze events rather than provide direct evidence. Secondary analyses summarize or analyze information from primary sources, while collections of multiple viewpoints aggregate perspectives without offering original accounts. Thus, the distinction lies in the originality and firsthand nature of the information, which is why the concept of a primary source is critical in research and historical documentation.