Jackie Robinson began his professional baseball career in 1945 with the Kansas City Monarchs, one of the leading teams of the then-separate Negro Leagues. Later that year, Robinson was recruited and signed by Branch Rickey, the general manager of the Brooklyn Dodgers (now the Los Angeles Dodgers). Robinson was called up from the minor leagues to the Brooklyn team in 1946, becoming the first black player to compete in the major leagues in the 20th century.
Breaking baseball's color barrier was a serious challenge, and Robinson met fierce resistance from many players and fans. Robinson endured malicious catcalls and racial slurs shouted from the stands and even anonymous death threats. Some rival players threw pitches at Robinson's head, spat on him when he slid into a base, and attempted to injure him with the spikes on their shoes. However, the determined Robinson survived these attacks and helped the Dodgers win the National League (NL) pennant in 1947. During the season, Robinson led the NL with 29 stolen bases and was named rookie of the year in the major leagues.

9
What is the connotative meaning of the word fierce in the second paragraph?
A.
powerful intensity
B.
courageous spirit
C.
fully present
D.
mild temper