Question

Read the excerpt from "Opening Ceremonies of the New York and Brooklyn Bridge" by Hon. Seth Low, Mayor of the City of Brooklyn.

Fourteen years ago a city of 400,000 people on this side of the river heard of a projected suspension bridge with incredulity. The span was so long, the height so great, and the enterprise likely to be so costly, that few thought of it as something begun in earnest. The irresistible demands of commerce enforced these hard conditions. But Science said, "It is possible," and Courage said, "It shall be!" To-day a city of 600,000 people welcomes with enthusiasm the wonderful creation of genius. Graceful, and yet majestic, it clings to the land like a thing that has taken root. Beautiful as a vision of fairyland it salutes our sight. The impression it makes upon the visitor is one of astonishment, an astonishment that grows with every visit. No one who has been upon it can ever forget it. This great structure cannot be confined to the limits of local pride. The glory of it belongs to the race. Not one shall see it and not feel prouder to be a man.

Which detail from the excerpt is important to the central idea?

400,000 people . . .
on this side of the river . . .
The span was so long . . .
cannot be confined . . .

Answer 1

Answer: The important detail from the excerpt that supports the central idea is "The span was so long . . ."

Step-by-step explanation:

This detail emphasizes the magnitude of the bridge and highlights the initial disbelief and skepticism surrounding its construction. The fact that the span was so long conveys the difficulty and complexity of the project, as well as the ambitious nature of the endeavor. It helps to convey the sense of awe and astonishment that the bridge inspires, making it a symbol of human achievement and progress. The mention of the bridge's impressive length also reinforces the idea that it is a significant landmark that goes beyond local pride, belonging to all of humanity. The length of the span is a concrete detail that contributes to the central idea of the bridge's grandeur and impact.