Question 109

A transcript of Lincoln's inaugural address

A transcript of Lincoln's inaugural address serves as a primary source for research about Abraham Lincoln, as it is a direct account of his words and ideas during a pivotal moment in his presidency.

A) A research-based history textbook

While a research-based history textbook may offer analysis and interpretations of Lincoln's life and presidency, it is considered a secondary source. Such texts compile information from primary sources and provide context but do not represent original documents or firsthand accounts.

B) A transcript of Lincoln's inaugural address

This option is a primary source because it contains Lincoln's original speech, providing direct insight into his thoughts and the political climate of the time. It is an essential artifact for understanding his perspective and intentions.

C) A Web site dedicated to facts about former presidents

Although this website may contain factual information about Lincoln, it is likely compiled from various secondary sources. It does not provide original documents or firsthand accounts, thereby not serving as a primary source for research.

D) A biography of Lincoln that was written by a current historian

This biography, while informative, is a secondary source. It presents an interpretation of Lincoln’s life based on existing primary and secondary materials, rather than serving as an original document from Lincoln's time.

Conclusion

A transcript of Lincoln's inaugural address is definitively the correct answer as it is an original document that provides firsthand insight into Lincoln's views and policies. All other options either rely on interpretations or compilations of primary information, thus failing to meet the criteria for primary sources in historical research.