The statement that most accurately explains the rise of Mao Zedong is:
Mao was politically active from a young age as a revolutionary and prioritized Chinese experience over foreign experience with communism. That was how he rose to become chairman over other experienced leaders who had spent their time in the Soviet Union instead of China.
This statement captures Mao's emphasis on adapting Marxist principles to the unique context of Chinese society, as well as his political involvement and leadership development within China, in contrast to leaders who were more influenced by Soviet ideology.