Great Chicago Fire of 1871

[patelbhavesh_09]

Some historians estimate that in the Great Chicago Fire of 1871, twice as much acreage was destroyed than had earlier been ravaged in Napoleon ’ s Moscow burnings of 1812 and the Great Fire of London of 1666 combined.

a) than had earlier been
b) than the amount that was earlier
c) over the amount that was previously
d) as had earlier been
e) as was

OA is D.

What is wrong with E here? the time-perioed is clearly mentioned so why simple past is not appropriate? why to use past perfect?

[patelbhavesh_09]

Some historians estimate that in the Great Chicago Fire of 1871, twice as much acreage was destroyed than had earlier been ravaged in Napoleon ’ s Moscow burnings of 1812 and the Great Fire of London of 1666 combined.

a) than had earlier been
b) than the amount that was earlier
c) over the amount that was previously
d) as had earlier been
e) as was

OA is D.

What is wrong with E here? the time-perioed is clearly mentioned so why simple past is not appropriate? why to use past perfect?

Rone/Stacey/Tim...anyone listening??? :(

[tim]

Of course. We just listen to the oldest unanswered posts first. You would have gotten this one answered earlier if you had not bumped it to the back of the queue by replying to your own post..

Before we can help though, you're going to have to post a source for this problem. i find the question fishy, and i highly doubt it came from a reputable source. Of course, if it did, we'll find a way to retcon a legitimate explanation for it.. :)

[patelbhavesh_09]

i find the question fishy, and i highly doubt it came from a reputable source.

:P..well, question is from kaplan ;)

[tim]

i believe my work here is done.. :)