EDITORIAL METHOD
How this archive makes historical claims
The archive separates source, interpretation, inference, chronology, and modern orientation so a useful interface does not convert uncertain evidence into fact.
Evidence hierarchy
Archaeological strata establish material sequences, not ethnic labels. Texts disclose categories and memories at the time of composition and transmission. Inscriptions provide chronological anchors but remain public acts of power and piety. Administrative records preserve observation together with institutional classifications. Oral memory is evidence of memory and practice, not automatic proof of ancient events.
Standard evidence labels
Competing interpretations
Structured philosophical disagreement keeps Pūrvapakṣa, Uttarapakṣa, and synthesis separate. Historical claims marked debated, disputed, approximate, traditional, or cautionary remain qualified and should be checked against the source register and chapter bibliography.
Maps and geography
Modern coordinates are orientation aids and do not imply timeless political borders. Historical regions, sites, corridors, and remembered geographies remain analytically distinct. GeoJSON carries source/status properties rather than unsupported reconstructed frontiers.
Chronological social-classification safeguard
Later social classifications are not projected backwards. Śrotriya/Srotriya is not presented as a fixed medieval Maithil Brahmin sub-caste; the archive treats its distinct sub-caste emergence as a later development around 1800 CE unless source-controlled evidence requires a narrower formulation.
Translation and scripts
Source-controlled supplied Maithili and English readings remain authoritative. Automated translation is an access aid only. Variant-script and transliteration search is a discovery layer, not a replacement for source spelling.
Versioning and corrections
Permanent records carry a release identifier and date modified. Dataset releases include checksums, and substantive corrections remain visible in the changelog.