Their motivation was to silence free thinkers it was corrupt government
I believe that flashbacks could be used to slow the pace of a story. If you are telling one story, and then decide to introduce a flashback, that would only slow down the story you are already telling.
Reflective narrating so that the reader can be on the same boat as the author.
B). Categorize A Topic
I believe this is the answer, if I am wrong, somebody feel free to correct me. :)