Read this excerpt from the introduction to Wheels of Change by Sue Macy.Imagine a population imprisoned by their very clothing; the stiff corsets, heavy skirts, and voluminous petticoats that made it difficult to take a deep breath, let alone exercise. Add to that the laws and social conventions that cemented a man's place as head of the household and holder of the purse strings. How suffocated women must have felt. And how liberated they must have been as they pedaled their wheels toward new horizons.
Answer
A
to define key terms
B
to establish credibility
C
to clearly explain the topic
D
to offer background information
Explanation
The excerpt describes the clothing, laws, and social conventions that restricted women before bicycles offered them greater freedom. This historical context helps readers understand the topic of the book, so the passage offers background information. It does not define key terms or establish the author’s credibility.
AI-written and checked against the verified answer.