Which Event Caused Reporter Herbert Morrison to Famously Cry, “oh, the Humanity!”?

On the evening of May 6, 1937, one of the most tragic events in aviation history occurred. Reporter Herbert Morrison, who was covering the event, was so overwhelmed by the tragedy that he uttered the famous phrase, "Oh, the humanity!" This article will discuss the event that caused Morrison’s emotional outburst and its lasting legacy.

Tragic Event

On May 6, 1937, the German airship Hindenburg caught fire while attempting to dock at Lakehurst, New Jersey. The Hindenburg was the largest aircraft ever built, and it was filled with 97 passengers and crewmembers. As the Hindenburg descended and attempted to dock, a spark of unknown origin caused the ship to burst into flames. Within seconds, the entire airship was engulfed in fire and quickly crashed to the ground. In the end, 36 people were killed, and the Hindenburg was completely destroyed.

Herbert Morrison’s Reaction

Herbert Morrison was a reporter for the radio station WLS in Chicago. He was sent to Lakehurst to cover the Hindenburg’s arrival, and he was broadcasting live as the tragedy unfolded. As the Hindenburg caught fire and crashed to the ground, Morrison was overcome with emotion and exclaimed, "Oh, the humanity!" His words have since become a famous phrase that is associated with the tragedy of the Hindenburg.

The tragedy of the Hindenburg was a turning point in aviation history. It was a reminder of the dangers of air travel and the fragility of human life. The famous phrase, "Oh, the humanity!" uttered by Herbert Morrison, continues to remind us of the tragedy of the Hindenburg and the importance of safety in aviation.