Firsthand vs Secondhand Accounts

Front

What is a firsthand account?

Back

A firsthand account is a description of an event from someone who was actually there to see it.

Front

What is a secondhand account?

Back

A secondhand account is a description of an event based on research or told by someone who was NOT there to see it.

Front

Give an example of a firsthand account.

Back

A diary entry from a soldier describing their experiences in battle.

Front

Give an example of a secondhand account.

Back

A history book that describes a battle based on research and interviews with veterans.

Front

How can you tell if something is a firsthand account?

Back

It will include personal experiences, feelings, and observations from someone who witnessed the event.

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How can you tell if something is a secondhand account?

Back

It will summarize information from other sources and may include opinions or interpretations.

Front

Why are firsthand accounts important?

Back

They provide direct evidence and personal perspectives on events.

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Why are secondhand accounts important?

Back

They help us understand events from multiple viewpoints and provide context.

Front

What type of sources can provide firsthand accounts?

Back

Interviews, letters, diaries, and autobiographies.

Front

What type of sources can provide secondhand accounts?

Back

Textbooks, documentaries, and articles that analyze events.