What type of artifacts are classified under primary source relics?

Primary source relics are original materials or artifacts that provide direct evidence or firsthand accounts of a historical event, person, or period. These artifacts are valuable in research because they offer insights that are not filtered through interpretation or commentary. Historical clothing items fall into this category as they are tangible evidence from a specific time and place, reflecting the fashion, culture, and social conditions of that era. They serve as direct links to the past, allowing researchers to analyze not just the physical characteristics of the garments but also their societal relevance and implications.

In contrast, published research papers and digital presentations are secondary sources, as they analyze or interpret primary data. Recent interviews with experts may also serve as secondary sources since they often reflect contemporary understanding or analysis of past events rather than providing direct evidence from that time. Thus, the classification of historical clothing items as primary source relics accurately aligns with the definition of primary sources in research.