What characterizes a primary source?

A primary source is indeed characterized by being a physical object or document produced during the time being studied. These sources provide direct or firsthand evidence of an event, person, or work and are crucial for understanding historical contexts. Examples of primary sources include diaries, letters, official documents, photographs, artifacts, and other materials created during the specific time period under investigation.

This direct connection to the time and events allows researchers to gain insights into the perspectives and experiences of individuals from that era, making primary sources essential for in-depth historical analysis. The other options describe secondary sources or aspects of secondary analysis, which do not provide the same firsthand evidence as primary sources.