How does paragraph 7 contribute to the development of ideas in the excerpt? a it explains how, despite their rigid laws and character, puritans had some positive characteristics and should be viewed favorably in american history. b it points out that the puritans were actually more open-minded than other europeans settlers and regrets their fall into obscurity. c it argues that the puritans admitted to their own mistakes and tried to make up for them, which is a value the author believes americans still practice today. d it emphasizes the puritans’ mistakes, such as executing innocent quakers and those accused of witchcraft, and argues that the dark side of history should not be forgotten.