Sinking of the Lusitania

The Lusitania, a luxury ocean liner, was sunk by a German U-boat in 1915, leading to over a thousand deaths. This event, amid Germany's unrestricted submarine warfare, caused international outrage, especially in the US, where 128 Americans died. The sinking shifted US public opinion against Germany, contributing to the US entering World War I. Controversy surrounded the Lusitania's cargo, with later evidence confirming military materials on board. The incident strained US-German relations and increased tensions, ultimately influencing the US's decision to join the war.

What was the Lusitania known for during its time?

• Being the oldest ship

• Having the most lifeboats

• Being the most luxurious ship

• Being the fastest and largest ship

What was the US stance at the beginning of World War I?

• They supported both sides

• They were actively involved in the war

• They were neutral and favored isolationism

• They were allied with Germany

What was the German policy regarding the waters around the British Isles?

• They ignored it

• They allowed free passage

• They declared it a war zone

• They declared it a safe zone

Why was the Lusitania traveling at a reduced speed on May 7, 1915?

• To save fuel

• Because of thick fog

• Due to mechanical failure

• To avoid detection by submarines

What was the immediate international reaction to the sinking of the Lusitania?

• It was celebrated by Germany

• It was seen as a minor incident

• It sparked international outrage

• It was largely ignored

What did the discovery in 2008 reveal about the Lusitania?

• It was carrying live ammunition

• It had no military cargo

• It was sunk by a mine

• It was carrying only passengers

What was one of the reasons Germany considered the Lusitania a legitimate target?

• It was carrying weapons

• It was a neutral ship

• It was a German ship

• It was a passenger ship

How did the sinking of the Lusitania affect US public opinion?

• It led to immediate US entry into the war

• It increased support for Germany

• It shifted opinion against Germany

• It had no effect on public opinion

What action did President Woodrow Wilson take after the sinking?

• He allied with Germany

• He declared war on Germany

• He sent protests to Germany

• He ignored the incident

What was the ultimate outcome of the Lusitania sinking for the US?

• It had no significant impact

• It contributed to the US entering World War I

• It resulted in US isolationism

• It led to immediate peace talks