What type of source provides firsthand accounts from historical times?

A primary source is a direct or firsthand account of an event, person, or time period. These sources are original materials that have not been altered or interpreted and provide a direct connection to the subject of study. Examples of primary sources include diaries, letters, photographs, interviews, artifacts, and official documents, which allow researchers and historians to gain insights and perspectives from individuals who experienced the events firsthand.

In contrast, secondary sources analyze, interpret, or summarize primary sources. They provide context and commentary but are one step removed from the original event. Tertiary sources compile and summarize information from primary and secondary sources, offering overviews of particular topics without providing direct evidence or experiences. Analytical sources focus on evaluating or interpreting information rather than offering firsthand accounts. Therefore, the definition of a primary source aligns perfectly with the question regarding firsthand accounts from historical times, making it the correct choice.