Published in the immediate wake of the famous maritime disaster, this "graphic and thrilling account of the sinking of the greatest Floating Palace ever built" sold briskly to an eager public. A century later, its tragic tale continues to captivate readers. These contemporary reports describe the luxury liner, its passengers, and the circumstances of the wreck. Gripping narratives by survivors recount episodes of heroism and cowardice along with dramatic rescues and moving incidents of self-sacrifice. In addition to chronicling the wide-ranging outpouring of grief and the establishment of many memorials, this fascinating compilation presents expert analysis of the shipwreck's causes and the findings of a Senate investigation convened to determine responsibility for the catastrophe. Historic photographs and specially commissioned drawings appear throughout the book.