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The Lusitania Story: A Tragedy of the Sea

Kazuo Ishiguro

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Published in The Lusitania Story Mitch Peeke

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The Lusitania Story

by Mitch Peeke

4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	3905 KB
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On May 7, 1915, the British passenger liner RMS Lusitania was sunk by a German U-boat off the coast of Ireland, killing 1,198 people. The sinking of the Lusitania was a major turning point in World War I, and it helped to bring the United States into the war.

The Lusitania was built by the Cunard Line in 1906. At the time of its construction, it was the largest and fastest passenger ship in the world. The Lusitania was designed to carry over 2,000 passengers and crew, and it was equipped with the latest safety features. However, the Lusitania was also a potential target for German U-boats. In early 1915, Germany began to wage unrestricted submarine warfare against Allied shipping. This meant that German U-boats were authorized to sink any ship, regardless of its nationality or cargo.

On May 1, 1915, the Lusitania left New York City on a voyage to Liverpool, England. The ship was carrying over 1,200 passengers and crew. Among the passengers were American citizens, including the prominent businessman Charles Frohman and the actress Rita Jolivet. The Lusitania also carried a large cargo of munitions, which was destined for the British war effort.

On May 7, 1915, the Lusitania was about 11 miles off the coast of Ireland when it was torpedoed by the German U-boat U-20. The torpedo struck the Lusitania's starboard side, and it caused a massive explosion. The Lusitania sank in just 18 minutes, and over 1,100 people were killed.

The sinking of the Lusitania was a major tragedy. It was the deadliest maritime disaster of World War I, and it helped to turn public opinion in the United States against Germany. The United States entered World War I in April 1917, and the sinking of the Lusitania was a major factor in the decision.

The Legacy of the Lusitania

The sinking of the Lusitania is still remembered today as a tragedy of the sea. The ship's wreck lies in over 300 feet of water, and it is a popular destination for divers. The Lusitania Memorial in Cobh, Ireland, commemorates the victims of the disaster. The sinking of the Lusitania also had a lasting impact on international law. The incident led to the development of the Lusitania Rules, which were designed to protect civilian shipping from submarine attacks.

The Lusitania Story is a tragic tale of loss and sorrow. The sinking of the Lusitania was a major turning point in World War I, and it helped to bring the United States into the war. The Lusitania's legacy is still felt today, and the ship's wreck is a reminder of the horrors of war.

The Lusitania Story

by Mitch Peeke

4 out of 5