Primary Source

A primary source is an original material created at the time an event occurred or by someone directly involved. Examples include diaries, letters, photographs, newspaper articles, official documents, or artifacts. These sources provide firsthand evidence and direct insight into historical events, experiences, or conditions. They are valuable for research because they offer raw, unfiltered information, allowing researchers to interpret and understand the past more authentically. In short, primary sources are the original materials that serve as the foundation for understanding history and events from those who witnessed or experienced them firsthand.