Which of the following best describes the relationship of the first paragraph of the passage as a whole?
A.
It compares and contrasts several achievements that are thoroughly examined later in the passage.
B.
It defines terms and relationships that are challenged in an argument later in the passage.
C.
It provides a host of concrete examples from which generalizations are drawn later in the passage.
D.
It leads to an assertion that is supported by examples and manifestations later in the passage.