The Nazi Titanic

Starred review from May 1, 2016

In his latest work, historian Watson (America's First Crisis: The War of 1812) probes the tumultuous history of the SS Cap Arcona, a German luxury liner launched in 1927 that regularly ferried cargo between Hamburg and Buenos Aires. The vessel was referred to as the Nazi Titanic, since it functioned as a prison ship during its later years, including when it was sunk by the British Royal Air Force in 1945, killing thousands formerly incarcerated in Nazi concentration camps. Through an in-depth investigation of the ship's many journeys, Watson delves into the social and military history of the Third Reich and the intrigue surrounding the German film industry. The author's meticulous research draws on archival sources and oral history interviews; the book further benefits from endnotes. VERDICT This work has much to offer both scholars and casual readers. Anyone interested in the maritime history of the Third Reich will enjoy. Film lovers will find this account complements our knowledge of motion pictures for propaganda during the Nazi occupation.--Felicia J. Williamson, Dallas Holocaust Museum

Copyright 2016 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.