Read the paragraph. the thesis statement is highlighted. general george washington the american revolution did not promise a simple victory, and nobody expected washington and the colonists to win. fortunately, washington was a great patriot and an effective leader. although his troops were fewer in number than the british forces, he proved to be a gifted strategist. for these reasons, he succeeded against the odds. washington married martha custis, a wealthy widow. which sentence is outside the focus of the paragraph? for these reasons, he succeeded against the odds. fortunately, general george washington was a great patriot and an effective leader. although his troops were fewer in number than the british forces, he proved to be a gifted strategist. washington married martha custis, a wealthy widow.

The sentence which is outside the focus of this paragraph is the very last one:

Washington married Martha Custis, a wealthy widow.

The entire paragraph is about the American Revolution, and Washington's involvement in it. His leadership is commended and the outcome of the revolution is revealed.

Even though the last sentence is about him, that is, about who he married, the focus is shifted: from the topic of him as a general, to an extra piece of information about his private life.

abolish

do away with

unanimous

in complete agreement

secede

separate; break free

inauguration

starting a new position with a formal ceremony.

cooperationist

people who wanted the north to cooperate with the south

surrender

to give up

volunteer

perform a service for free

draft

involuntary service in military

retreat

withdraw; move away from enemy

advisor

expert who gives advice

explanation:

d.) continue to rise rapidly