Question

How many times was Moscow burned down in its 900 year history?

a. only once
b. four
c. Trick question! Moscow never burned.
d. twelve

Answer 1

Moscow has been burned down several times in its history. Notable instances that are well-documented include the fires during the Mongol invasion, the occupation by Crimean Khan Devlet I Giray, the Great Fire of Moscow, and the fire during Napoleon's invasion. Therefore, the correct answer is that Moscow was burned down four notable times.

Step-by-step explanation:

The question of how many times Moscow was burned down in its long history is related to historical events that have affected the city over the centuries. In the history of Moscow, which spans approximately 900 years, the city has indeed been burned several times. Notable instances include:

• The burning of Moscow in 1238 during the Mongol invasion of Rus'.
• The fire during the occupation of Moscow by the Crimean Khan Devlet I Giray in 1571.
• The Great Fire of Moscow in 1547.
• Perhaps the most famous, the fire of 1812, which was set deliberately by retreating Russian forces during Napoleon's invasion.

While this is not an exhaustive list, it demonstrates that the correct answer is b. four notable instances, though there have been other, less well-documented fires throughout history. Therefore, answer choice 'b' is the closest correct answer from the given options.