historical fact
Refers to a fact or event that actually happened in history, as opposed to fiction or legend. Often used in academic or journalistic contexts.
This novel is based on historical facts.
I read old documents to investigate the historical facts.
This novel is written based on historical fact.
Much of the movie's content differs from historical fact.
The report was criticized for distorting historical fact.
実話 is a true story or real-life account often used for anecdotes or media, while 史実 specifically denotes a verified fact from recorded history.
Compound of 史 (history) and 実 (truth, reality). The reading is on'yomi for both characters.
This is praised as a depiction faithful to historical fact.