the RMS Lusitania

The RMS Lusitania was a British ocean liner launched in 1906, primarily used for passenger transport across the Atlantic. It was one of the fastest and most luxurious ships of its time. In 1915, during World War I, it was torpedoed by a German U-boat, resulting in the loss of approximately 1,200 lives. The sinking caused international outrage and contributed to the United States' decision to enter the war. The event highlighted the dangers of wartime maritime travel and shifted public opinion against Germany, shaping subsequent naval policies and international shipping security efforts.