Question

Maggie Lena Walker (1867-1934) was born Maggie Mitchell, in Richmond, Virginia. Her parents were former slaves who worked in the mansion of Elizabeth Van Lew, an abolitionist. Later, Maggie's father worked as a head waiter at a hotel restaurant. After he died, Maggie's mother supported herself and her daughter with the income from a small laundry business. Maggie was educated at the Lancaster School and the Armstrong Normal School. After graduating in 1883, she taught school until her marriage. In 1886, Maggie married a building contractor named Armstead Walker, Jr., and the couple had three children, two of whom survived. She worked tirelessly for civil rights and humanitarian causes, but she also had to bring home a paycheck to help support her family. She became an agent for the Woman's Union Insurance Company, a job in which she thrived. Before long, she was promoted to become the executive secretary/treasurer of the company. Following that position, in 1902, Maggie founded a newspaper called the St. Luke Herald. The next year, she started the St. Luke Penny Savings Bank and was its president—the first woman bank president in the country. The bank's goal was to provide loans to the local community. By 1920, the bank had enabled citizens to buy as many as 600 new homes. In 1929, the Great Depression hit, forcing countless businesses to shut their doors. Maggie Walker bought up the other struggling local banks. She then renamed her company the Consolidated Bank and Trust.

What would be the best introduction to this essay?
A.
Maggie Mitchell was 21 years of age when she met and married Armstead Walker, Jr., a building contractor.
B.
Maggie Walker founded a bank whose goal was to help people in the local community secure loans.
C.
Being the daughter of slaves was likely what made Maggie Walker keenly aware of civil rights causes.
D.
Maggie Walker was a go-getter who rose from humble beginnings to become a business success.

Answer 1

D. Maggie Walker was a go-getter who rose from humble beginnings to become a business success.

This introduction effectively captures the essence of Maggie Walker's life story, emphasizing her determination and success despite her challenging early circumstances. It sets the tone for an exploration of her achievements, civil rights work, and contributions to her community.