William Thomas Turner

British ship captain

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July 20, 2026

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William Thomas Turner was the British captain of the RMS Lusitania, a British ocean liner. In May 1915, the Lusitania was sailing from New York to Liverpool when it was warned of German U-boat activity off the coast of Ireland. Despite recommendations to avoid the area and zigzag for safety, Captain Turner proceeded on a direct course. On May 7, 1915, the Lusitania was struck by a torpedo and sank within 20 minutes, resulting in the deaths of nearly 1,200 people, including 128 American citizens. This event significantly contributed to the eventual entry of the United States into World War I.12

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Today in History—May 7
The Sinking of the Lusitania
…morning of May 7, 1915, Capt. William Turner slowed his swift ship near shore as fog closed in.
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…morning of May 7, 1915, Capt. William Turner slowed his swift ship near shore as fog closed in.
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Lusitania
The ship’s captain, William Thomas Turner, chose to ignore these recommendations, and on the afternoon of May 7 the vessel was attacked. A torpedo struck and exploded amidships on the starboard side, and a heavier explosion followed, possibly caused by damage to the ship’s steam engines and pipes.…
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The ship’s captain, William Thomas Turner, chose to ignore these recommendations, and on the afternoon of May 7 the vessel was attacked. A torpedo struck and exploded amidships on the starboard side, and a heavier explosion followed, possibly caused by damage to the ship’s steam engines and pipes.…
Read More