Question

which statement best evaluates the credibility of this secondary source?
an excerpt from an article on the website historical journals, written by historian dr. alexa cronig, in 2014:
inspired by the american and french revolutions, many colonies in central and south america sought their independence in the 19th century. mexican rebels fought against spanish colonial rule until they won independence in 1821. farther south, simón bolívar fought to liberate the colonies of venezuela, colombia, ecuador, bolivia, and peru from spain. portugal also lost its colony in brazil, which became an independent empire in 1822.
a. this source is credible because it contains information and facts that are accurate.
b. this source is credible because it contains opinions that are shared by other authors.
c. this source is not credible because it contains more opinions than facts.
d. this source is not credible because it was not written by an expert in the field.

Explanation:

A credible secondary source should present accurate information and facts. Here, the source is an article on "Historical Journals" written by a historian (Dr. Alexa Cronig). The content provides factual details about 19th - century Central and South American independence movements (e.g., Mexican independence in 1821, Simón Bolívar's role, Brazil's independence in 1822). There is no indication of false information. Option B is incorrect because credibility is based on facts, not just shared opinions. Option C is wrong as the source contains mainly facts. Option D is incorrect since the author is a historian (an expert in the field of history).

Answer:

A. This source is credible because it contains information and facts that are accurate.