Scholarly accounts of the Civil Rights Movement often focus on famous, charismatic leaders, making the movement appear to be driven top-down by a few individuals. Historian Maria Gonzalez has shown, however, that if we shift our focus to local community centers and church basements, we see everyday citizens advocating for change through small-scale, diverse political actions.
Which choice best describes the function of the underlined portion in the text as a whole?
It identifies a gap in the historical record that Gonzalez failed to address.
It summarizes the conventional method of viewing the movement, which the text suggests provides an incomplete picture.
It argues that famous leaders were actually less radical than the everyday citizens.
It presents a specific example of a leader who has been ignored by historians.
Correct Answer: B
Choice B is the best answer. The text mentions "scholarly accounts" that focus on leaders, then introduces Gonzalez who challenges this view. The underlined portion describes the conventional view that the text critiques.
Choice A is incorrect. Gonzalez did address the gap. Choice C is incorrect. The text is about the focus (leaders vs. locals), not who was more radical. Choice D is incorrect. It refers to accounts in general, not a specific leader.