What type of source directly provides first-hand accounts of events?

• A. Secondary sources
• B. Primary sources
• C. Tertiary sources
• D. Analytical sources

Answer: (B)

The correct choice is primary sources because they are defined as original materials that provide direct evidence or firsthand accounts of a particular event, situation, or time period. Examples of primary sources include diaries, letters, interviews, photographs, and official records. These sources are invaluable in research as they allow individuals to gain insight directly from those who experienced or witnessed the events being studied, ensuring authenticity and a deeper understanding of historical context.

Secondary sources, in contrast, analyze, interpret, or summarize information from primary sources, often providing context or perspective but lacking the immediacy of firsthand accounts. Tertiary sources compile and summarize information from primary and secondary sources, such as encyclopedias and textbooks, focusing on synthesizing existing knowledge rather than providing original evidence. Analytical sources typically involve critical evaluation or interpretation of information rather than offering direct accounts. Understanding these distinctions helps clarify the unique role primary sources play in research and scholarship.