On This Day…

The Hindenburg Disaster – “Oh, the Humanity!”

May 6, 1937

The Hindenburg Disaster – “Oh, the Humanity!” News reporter Herbert Morrison makes his famous proclamation, “Oh, the Humanity!” as he witnesses the disaster unfolding. The giant airship Hindenburg explodes and burns killing 36 people while preparing to land at Lakehurst, New Jersey. The exact cause of the fire has never been determined, but theories range from a hydrogen leak, sabotage from either crew or passengers, static electricity, and a flammable coating on the skin of the craft. This disaster marked the end of the airship era.