Criterion of Authenticity

The Criterion of Authenticity is a principle used to determine whether a historical document or artifact is genuine and reliable. It assesses whether the item can be traced back to its origin and whether it aligns with known facts, context, and other evidence. In essence, it helps historians and researchers distinguish real items from forgeries or misattributed works. By applying this criterion, scholars can better understand the past and ensure that the information they use is credible and trustworthy.