What Famous Person Almost Went on the Titanic?
The story of the Titanic is one of history's most enduring and tragic tales. While many well-known figures tragically perished on that ill-fated maiden voyage in April 1912, there's a fascinating "what if" scenario involving a very famous person who, by sheer luck, ended up not being aboard. The individual in question is none other than **J.P. Morgan**, the immensely powerful American financier, banker, and art collector.
J.P. Morgan: The Magnate Who Missed the Boat
J.P. Morgan was not just a passenger; he was a central figure in the very creation of the White Star Line, the company that owned the Titanic. He was also the driving force behind the International Mercantile Marine Co. (IMM), a holding company that controlled several major shipping lines, including the White Star Line. The Titanic was the jewel in the IMM's crown, a testament to the grandeur and ambition of the era.
Morgan had booked passage on the Titanic's maiden voyage. In fact, he was supposed to be in a luxurious stateroom, ready to experience the pinnacle of maritime travel. However, fate intervened in a rather ordinary, yet ultimately life-saving, way.
Why J.P. Morgan Didn't Sail
The primary reason J.P. Morgan missed the Titanic was a last-minute illness. Reports indicate that he was suffering from a severe case of bronchitis and was advised by his physicians not to travel. He was also in poor health generally at the time.
Here's a breakdown of the circumstances:
- Booking: J.P. Morgan, as a principal owner and a man of considerable means, was naturally expected to be on board for the inaugural journey. He had indeed reserved his suite.
- Illness: In the days leading up to the departure, Morgan fell ill. The exact severity is debated, but it was significant enough to cause him to cancel his plans.
- Cancellation: He sent word that he would not be able to make the voyage, much to the disappointment of White Star Line officials who had hoped for his presence to add to the prestige of the event.
- Alternative Arrangements: Morgan, being a man of action, didn't simply stay home. He reportedly continued his business dealings and spent his time at his villa in the south of France, enjoying the warmer climate and recovering.
His absence from the Titanic was a close call, considering his deep involvement with the ship and its parent company. His survival undoubtedly had significant implications for the future of the IMM and the financial world of the time.
"It is a sobering thought that J.P. Morgan, the man who financed and championed the construction of the Titanic, narrowly escaped its fate due to a bout of ill health. His absence was perhaps the greatest 'what if' of the entire disaster."
Other Notable Figures Who Almost Sailed
While J.P. Morgan is the most prominent example of a famous individual who almost boarded the Titanic, there were others whose names are also linked to potential passengers who ultimately did not sail:
- Milton Hershey: The chocolate magnate, Milton S. Hershey, also reportedly had plans to travel on the Titanic. However, he too canceled at the last minute, though the exact reasons are less clearly documented than Morgan's. Some accounts suggest business commitments, while others point to a general desire to avoid the long voyage.
- Frances Hodgson Burnett: The celebrated author of "The Secret Garden" and "Little Lord Fauntleroy" was also rumored to have considered a voyage on the Titanic. However, there is no definitive evidence that she actually booked a ticket or canceled one. It remains more of a historical anecdote than a confirmed near-miss.
The Impact of Morgan's Survival
J.P. Morgan's survival was not just a personal stroke of luck; it had wider repercussions. As the primary financier and owner of the IMM, his continued leadership was crucial in the aftermath of the disaster. The sinking of the Titanic represented a massive financial loss, and Morgan's steady hand was instrumental in navigating the company through the ensuing crisis and maintaining its stability.
His presence on board would have been a significant morale booster for the company and a symbol of its strength. His absence, while due to illness, meant that the company faced the tragedy without its most influential figure at the helm during the voyage itself.
FAQ
How did J.P. Morgan avoid the Titanic disaster?
J.P. Morgan avoided the Titanic disaster because he fell ill with a severe case of bronchitis shortly before the ship's maiden voyage. His physicians advised him against traveling, leading him to cancel his reservation.
Why was J.P. Morgan supposed to be on the Titanic?
J.P. Morgan was supposed to be on the Titanic because he was the powerful financier behind the International Mercantile Marine Co. (IMM), which owned the White Star Line. He was a key figure in the ship's conception and construction and intended to travel on its inaugural journey.
Were there other famous people who almost boarded the Titanic?
Yes, other famous individuals are rumored to have almost boarded the Titanic. These include the chocolate magnate Milton S. Hershey, who also canceled his plans at the last minute, and possibly the author Frances Hodgson Burnett, though evidence for her booking is less concrete.
What was J.P. Morgan doing instead of being on the Titanic?
Instead of being on the Titanic, J.P. Morgan was recovering from his illness at his villa in the south of France. He reportedly continued to conduct business from there.
