Which sentence supports the author’s argument that James Smithson’s gift to the United States was an unusual one?
1. James was a rich British man who left all his money to a young nation.
2. He wanted to establish a place for scientific research in America.
3. Smithson never set foot in America.
4. All those who have ever walked the grounds of the Smithsonian have this man from Great Britain to thank.
The sentence that supports the author’s argument that James Smithson’s gift to the United States was an unusual one is:
3. Smithson never set foot in America.
Explanation: This sentence highlights the unusual nature of Smithson’s gift because it indicates that he donated his fortune to a country he had never visited. This reinforces the idea that his generosity was unique and perhaps unexpected, as he had no direct connection to the nation he chose to support.