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Answer: ASet 1: Cross-Text Connections
Explanation
PASSAGE
Text 1 The construction of the Transcontinental Railroad in the 1860s connected the East and West coasts of America. It revolutionized transport and commerce. Text 2 The railroad was built largely by Chinese and Irish immigrants who worked in brutal conditions for low pay. Their contribution was often overlooked in historical accounts of the achievement.
Which choice best synthesizes the historical perspective?
A. A technological triumph achieved through the exploitation of marginalized labor.✓ Correct
B. The railroad was built by machines.
C. Commerce declined after the railroad was built.
D. Immigrants were paid very well.
Detailed Explanation
Text 1: Triumph/Revolutionized. Text 2: Immigrants/Brutal conditions/Low pay (Exploitation). Synthesis: Triumph + Exploitation.
Key Evidence:
• "revolutionized transport"
• "brutal conditions"
• "low pay"
• "contribution ... overlooked"
Why others are wrong: B (Immigrants.), C (Revolutionized (improved).), D (Low pay.).