Lusitania : unravelling the mysteries

The story of RMS Lusitania, a passenger liner sunk as a result of a German U-Boat attack whilst on a transatlantic crossing to Liverpool from New York in May 1915. 1,199 passengers and crew lost their lives. The event helped to change American attitudes against Germany and was a factor in the declaration of war by the United States two years later. The author examines the context for the sinking, the role of merchant ships in the war and submarine warfare as well as the sinking itself and aftermath. In particular, he focuses on the role of communications and intelligence, the causes of a second explosion, the inquiries into the event and speculation concerning the presence of munitions and explosives on board. Illustrated throughout.