Consider this thesis statement: "The Great Chicago Fire was one of the most damaging events in American history.” Which details best support this thesis?

Question

More than 300 people died in the fire.
The business district was in the center of Chicago.
Buildings in downtown Chicago were completely ruined.
Trains did not run on the south side.

Answer 1

To best support the thesis statement "The Great Chicago Fire was one of the most damaging events in American history," the following details are most relevant:

1. More than 300 people died in the fire. - This detail highlights the human cost of the event, which underscores its significance and impact on American history.

2. The business district was in the center of Chicago. - This detail emphasizes the location's importance, suggesting the wide-reaching effects on the city’s economy and infrastructure.

3. Buildings in downtown Chicago were completely ruined. - This detail illustrates the extent of the destruction and loss, reinforcing the idea that the fire had devastating consequences.

The detail "Trains did not run on the south side" is less directly relevant to supporting the thesis since it does not speak to the overall impact of the fire on American history in a broader sense.

In summary, the best supporting details would be the first three points.