Due to automobile-related jobs in the 1920's

[aflaamM589]

Due to automobile-related jobs in the 1920's employing one of every eight workers, the automobile industry dominated the American economy.

• A. Due to automobile-related jobs in the 1920's employing one of every eight workers, the automobile industry dominated the American economy.

• B. One out of every eight workers were employed in automobile-related jobs in the 1920's, with the American economy being dominated by the automobile industry.

• C. The automobile industry dominated the American economy in the 1920's, with one of every eight workers having been employed in automobile-related jobs.

• D. In the 1920's, the automobile industry had dominated the American economy, when one out of every eight workers was employed in an automobile-related job.

• E. In the 1920's, the automobile industry dominated the American economy, with one out of every eight workers employed in an automobile-related job.

THX!

Hello Ron,
Is when in D also mispaced?
Thanks in advance

[RonPurewal]

Is when in D also mispaced?

i'd say so, yeah.

[ZhengJ600]

Can one of you GMAT experts confirm that the following items are incorrect about choice (B)?

1. "one out of every eight workers" should be followed by "was" rather than "were"?
2. "being" is used incorrectly, as it doesn't make any sense to use progressive form in this context? The progressive form is focused on some point in time.

Much appreciated on your help here. Thank you!

[Sage Pearce-Higgins]

1. "one out of every eight workers" should be followed by "was" rather than "were"?

Yes.

2. "being" is used incorrectly, as it doesn't make any sense to use progressive form in this context? The progressive form is focused on some point in time.

A progressive form usually involves some sort of comparison of actions or interrupted situation: 'We were having dinner when the phone rang.' or 'She was being coached when it started raining.' So I agree that it's inappropriate here.

I encourage you to notice how the correct answer uses the 'with...' modifier. The fact about one in eight workers explains or supports the initial clause about the American economy. In answer B, the clauses are reversed, making a seemingly illogical sentence.

[ZhengJ600]

Thank you. Yes, while understanding why the other choices are incorrect, I will also pay more attention to how the correct answer choices are phrased as well.

[Sage Pearce-Higgins]

You're welcome.