Final answer:
Zhu Yuanzhang, the Hongwu Emperor, was very successful in implementing comprehensive social welfare programs aimed at improving life for China's poor. He abolished slavery, increased taxes on the wealthy, and initiated other reforms to support peasants and agricultural productivity.
Step-by-step explanation:
Zhu Yuanzhang, also known as the Hongwu Emperor, was the first emperor of the Ming dynasty. In assessing how successful he was at improving life for China’s poor, the most fitting option would be a) Very successful, implementing comprehensive social welfare programs. Zhu Yuanzhang had a strong sympathy for the poor, derived from his own experiences of poverty in early life. He undertook a series of initiatives to address social disparities, including abolishing slavery, increasing taxes on the wealthy, restoring agricultural productivity, and distributing land to peasants. Importantly, he oversaw public works and infrastructure projects that contributed to an agricultural system that supported the livelihood of the common people.
During Hongwu's reign, China saw significant improvements in terms of political stability and population growth, alongside efforts to bolster the economy and security. His policies aimed at improving the welfare of the people generally reflect a significant attempt to address the needs of the impoverished, though external pressures and economic strains sometimes hampered complete success.