Flames of Sorrow: The General Slocum Tragedy
Flames of Sorrow: The General Slocum Tragedy
Over 1000 people perished when the General Slocum caught fire and sank in the East River in New York City.
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April 23, 2024

Flames of Sorrow: The General Slocum Tragedy

Flames of Sorrow: The General Slocum Tragedy

Over 1000 people perished when the General Slocum caught fire and sank in the East River in New York City.

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Shipwrecks and Sea Dogs Podcast

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The General Slocum shipwreck occurred on June 15, 1904, when the passenger steamboat caught fire while cruising along the East River in New York City. Carrying over 1,300 passengers, primarily members of the German-American community on an annual excursion, the disaster resulted in the loss of over 1,000 lives, mainly women and children. Outdated safety measures, locked gates, malfunctioning lifeboats, and inadequate life vests contributed to the tragedy, prompting significant reforms in maritime safety regulations and leaving a profound impact on New York City's history and the public's consciousness.

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