Which term describes documents that analyze or provide perspectives on past events?

• A. Primary sources
• B. Interpretive sources
• C. Secondary sources
• D. Historical sources

Answer: (C)

The term that describes documents that analyze or provide perspectives on past events is secondary sources. Secondary sources interpret, analyze, or summarize information from primary sources, which are the original records created at the time an event occurred. Secondary sources can include various types of material, such as books, articles, and documentaries that discuss and reflect upon historical events rather than offering firsthand accounts or original data.

This distinction is crucial in historical research, as secondary sources play a significant role in understanding the context and significance of primary sources, allowing scholars and students to grasp broader insights into how events are perceived and analyzed through time. Such sources are invaluable for building a comprehensive understanding of history because they incorporate various viewpoints and interpretations that have emerged after the fact.