Questions: When the speaker refers to historical events, they are Referring to the audience Using a quotation Creating a comparison Using a startling statistic

The answer is: Creating a comparison.

Explanation for each option:

1. Referring to the audience: This option would imply that the speaker is directly addressing or mentioning the audience in relation to historical events. However, the question specifies that the speaker is referring to historical events, not the audience.

2. Using a quotation: This option would mean that the speaker is citing someone else's words verbatim. While quotations can sometimes include historical events, the question does not indicate that the speaker is quoting someone.

3. Creating a comparison: This is the correct answer. When a speaker refers to historical events, they often do so to draw parallels or contrasts between past events and the current situation. This helps to create a comparison that can provide context, highlight similarities or differences, and make the speaker's point more compelling.

4. Using a startling statistic: This option would involve the speaker presenting a surprising or shocking numerical fact. While statistics can be related to historical events, the question does not suggest that the speaker is using numerical data.

In summary, the speaker is most likely creating a comparison by referring to historical events, as this is a common rhetorical strategy to illustrate a point or provide context.