Lusitania

The Lusitania was a British ocean liner that sank on May 7, 1915, after being torpedoed by a German submarine during World War I. Out of approximately 1,959 passengers and crew, over 1,200 lost their lives, including 128 Americans. The sinking caused outrage, especially in the U.S., and influenced public opinion against Germany, contributing to America's eventual entry into the war in 1917. The Lusitania was carrying both civilians and munitions, which raised debates about wartime ethics and the rules of engagement at sea. The tragedy remains a significant event in maritime and military history.