Final answer:
The term for man-made historical sources is 'artifacts,' which are primary sources that provide direct evidence about their time period, aiding in historical interpretations.
Step-by-step explanation:
The term for man-made items used as sources to study history is artifacts. These items, which can include anything from government documents to musical instruments, are considered primary sources, because they provide direct evidence about the time period from which they originate. Artifacts help historians and students develop interpretations of past cultures, beliefs, and events, and are crucial tools in the scientific study of history.