de$-$by$-$Side

When historians or history students "read" non$-$text sources they ask who created them, when and where they were created, and, most importantly, why they were created. The "why" question is particularly crucial because it helps historians and students to understand

the creators' motivations, intentions, and perspectives.

how the sources might have changed or been modified over time.

who has ensured the sources' survival across time until the present day.

the technologies or techniques the creators used to make the object.