Lusitania: An Illustrated Biography

2015 marks the centennial anniversary of one of the worst maritime disasters in the history of the great trans-Atlantic liners: the sinking of the RMS Lusitania. This volume helps to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the disaster by telling the complete story of the life and loss of the Lusitania.

Today, the Lusitania is mostly remembered for her tragic sinking, the political repercussions of the disaster, and on numerous conspiracies which have sprung up around her. While it is important to remember her tragic loss and the people whose lives were forever changed by that event, it is also important to remember the history of the great liner in context.

Prior to May 7, 1915, the Lusitania was already a legend: not for tragedy, but instead for success. Having entered service in September 1907, for seven and a half years, she crossed the North Atlantic with punctuality and dependability. She fast became the ship of choice for many of the transatlantic travellers. Since her sinking, however, the story of her wondrous career and technological marvels have largely been neglected. Instead, the focus has shifted to her political importance, and on numerous conspiracy theories about her last voyage and sinking.

This special centennial edition of Lusitania: An Illustrated Biography discusses the entire story of the liner. There have been numerous updates, expansions and corrections to the 2010 text; new photographic and illustrative material has been added, many of them in large format to help bring her back to life for readers. Artist Stuart Williamson has generously added some of his pieces to the color section to help supplement the fine work of Tom Lear, which was produced specifically for the 2010 edition. In short, everything that was so highly regarded about the previous edition has been retained, while the improvements and additions bring the book to new heights.

It is hoped that this new volume will be a fitting tribute to all of those who sailed aboard, died on, and who were ever touched by the legendary Lusitania. This special edition is not to be missed, and belongs on the shelves of anyone who loves the history of the great Atlantic liners.