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History changes when the question changes
Historical accounts are built from evidence, but the questions asked determine which evidence becomes important.
The idea
Primary sources come from the period being studied; secondary sources interpret them later. Both carry limits, perspectives, and omissions that must be examined.
An example
A government record may describe a policy precisely, while a private letter reveals how that policy felt to people living through it.
Put it into practice
When reading history, ask who created the evidence, for whom, and what voice may be missing.
Test yourself: A source created during the period being studied is usually called…
A primary source
Correct. Primary sources come from the time, though they still carry perspective and limitations.
Explanation and illustrative examples by One Card Wiser. Source linked for further reading.
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