The author's purpose for including this information in the text is to show that

Hine had a connection to and a real interest in these children and their plight.
Hine was able to receive a high school and college education.
Hine had the needed credentials to take on this particular assignment.
Hine, who was born in 1874, was a rather young man when he undertook this project.

1 answer

The author's purpose for including this information in the text is to show that Hine had a connection to and a real interest in these children and their plight. This option highlights Hine's emotional and personal engagement with the subject, which aligns with the likely intent of discussing his work and motivations in relation to the children he photographed.