The Sinking of the Earl of Lathom by U-20

Overview of the Earl of Lathom Incident

The sinking of the British schooner Earl of Lathom in 1915 marked a significant event during World War I, showcasing the naval warfare tactics employed by Germany's U-boats. Captured by the infamous German submarine U-20, this incident highlighted the dangers of maritime transport during the war.

Details of the Earl of Lathom Incident

On a fateful day in 1915, the Earl of Lathom, a British merchant vessel, was trading in waters that were becoming increasingly perilous due to submarine activity. The U-20, commanded by Kapitänleutnant Walter Schwieger, spotted the schooner and executed a classic underwater attack. Despite the Earl of Lathom being unarmed and adhering to trading conventions, the U-boat attacked without warning, underscoring the ruthless nature of submarine warfare.

Repercussions of the Sinking

The attack on the Earl of Lathom not only resulted in the loss of the ship but also raised significant public outcry against Germany's unrestricted submarine warfare policy. It contributed to shifting public opinion in Britain, increasing hostility toward Germany and a call for more stringent naval defenses.

Impact on Naval Warfare

The sinking of the Earl of Lathom represents a critical moment in naval warfare, illustrating the operational effectiveness and psychological impact of U-boats during World War I. The incident is often discussed in the context of how submarines fundamentally changed maritime strategies.

U-20's Role in World War I

The U-20 was part of Germany's broader strategy to disrupt Allied supply lines. Its successful attack on merchant vessels contributed to a significant number of civilian casualties and maritime losses, prompting an international debate on the ethics of submarine warfare.

The Fate of the Crew

After the sinking, the crew of the Earl of Lathom faced dire conditions, with many struggling to survive in the water. The survival stories and losses from this and similar incidents became emblematic of the brutal realities of World War I naval conflicts.

Fun Fact

U-20's Notorious Reputation

The U-20 is notably remembered for its role in the sinking of the RMS Lusitania just a few months later, further solidifying the fear and notoriety of German U-boats in maritime history.

Additional Resources

Recommended Reading on Naval Warfare

For those interested in a deeper exploration of naval warfare during World War I, consider reading "The U-Boat War" and "World War I U-boats", both of which provide insights into the maritime strategies and events surrounding this tumultuous time.