May 6, 1937: The Hindenburg catches fire and crashed while attempting to dock at Lakehurst, New Jersey, killing 36 travelers


During the First World War, dirigibles were used for reconnaissance and air raids. After the war, it was thought that they could be used a reliable, and cheap source of air travel. Throughout the 1920’s and 1930’s, the blimps ferried passengers throughout the countries of the world. In May of 1937, the German dirigible, LZ 129 Hindenburg departed from Frankfurt for a round trip ending in Rio de Janeiro. On the morning of May 6, the Hindenburg was spotted floating gently over Boston. Inclement weather had slightly delayed its planned layover in Lakehurst, New Jersey. Over the course of the afternoon, the blimp traveled slowly down the East Coast toward its destination. Around 7:00 at night, the dirigible began its descent. The events of next half hour are a mystery. At 7:25, the Hindenburg erupted into flames during its descent. The flaming wreck hit the ground hard. Thirteen passengers and twenty-two crew members died in the resulting wreck.

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