Final answer:
To make inferences from historical documents, it is crucial to identify if the source is primary or secondary to assess its reliability and then examine the author's views and evidences provided within the text.
Step-by-step explanation:
When examining documents and making inferences based on historical texts, it is essential to determine whether the source is primary or secondary. A primary source is an original document or direct evidence concerning a topic under investigation, typically produced by a witness or participant of the events at the time they occurred. A secondary source is one step removed and offers an interpretation or analysis of primary sources. Understanding the nature of the source matters because it influences the reliability and perspective of the information provided.
In the context of Chinese history and the Mongols, to make inferences from documents, one would look at the author's perspective and intended message. For example, if the author believed the world to be better or worse off without the Mongols, this opinion would shape the document's content and tone. Evidence within the document, such as specific references to changes in society, politics, or culture under Mongol rule, would support such a claim.
Moreover, comparing different sources for their reliability requires analyzing the authors' background, potential biases, and the context in which they were writing. For instance, a letter from the Pope during the period might be seen as influential due to the authority of the papacy and the widespread impact of Christianity during the era.