Answer:
The author uses this passage to help the reader focus on <u>why Dr. Dowell is in Thailand.</u>
Explanation:
In the supporting text "Disease Central" in John DiConsiglio's <em>When Birds Get Flu</em>, the author included details on the reason why Dr. Dowell had to go to Thailand. The scientists’ first trip overseas to Southeast Asia is to work on the <em>"epidemic of smallpox and cholera"</em> that has taken over the people.
This passage is included so that the readers will understand why Dr. Dowell had to be there in Thailand. It also allows the writer to provide a background on why the scientists and other experts had to make an overseas trip. It also tells us why a US-based doctor from the CDC had to come to another side of the world.
Whereas everything here is very important to a short story, and a combination of those would be perfect, I'd say that for such a story 'plot' is the most important element. Because you need an interesting story, and you need to explain how they are going to escape the jail.
People encountered colorful characters, lively adventures, and hometown hospitality=The canal became a popular travel experience.
Social reforms like abolitionism thrived in the canal corridor=The canal became a venue for new ideas.
Freight rates fell to just 10% of their previous cost=Merchants using the canal had dramatic profit gains.
There are many leisure activities possible in and around the canal including. . .=The canal system has a new life as venue for recreation.
The uncomfortable 2-week wagon or stagecoach trip became possible in merely 5 days=The canal revolutionized transportation.
I believe the answer is kindhearted
