A third possibility applies when evidence proves that a participant was involved and lied about it. The lie then becomes evidence in its own right. It may indicate guilt, an attempt to escape responsibility, and awareness that the act was considered wrong even at the time. Historians can use that information when analysing both the event and the participant's understanding of it. The account remains useful despite the demonstrable falsehood.
Notable Point · 2:01-2:29
A provable lie can illuminate guilt
When evidence proves that a participant lied about an event, the lie may reveal guilt and an awareness at the time that the conduct was wrong.