Dark Tide: The Great Boston Molasses Flood of 1919
On a sunny afternoon in Boston's North End, a 50-foot-tall steel tank holding 2.3 million gallons of molasses catastrophically failed, unleashing a 25-foot-high tidal wave that flattened buildings and claimed dozens of lives. Stephen Puleo's gripping account reveals the human cost of industrial ambition, the heroism amid chaos, and the lasting lessons from this bizarre yet devastating disaster.
About This Book
Dark Tide recounts the catastrophic Great Boston Molasses Flood of 1919, a disaster that reshaped the city's industrial landscape. The event involved the sudden rupture of a large storage tank, sending a wave of sticky liquid surging through crowded streets.
Author Stephen Puleo examines the historical context, highlighting the tensions between immigrant communities and powerful industrial interests in early 20th-century America. The book details the immediate aftermath, including rescue efforts and the profound impact on local residents.
Through meticulous research, Puleo explores how the flood exposed vulnerabilities in urban infrastructure and labor practices. It serves as a compelling narrative of a forgotten American tragedy, blending factual reporting with vivid storytelling.
The work also addresses the legal and social repercussions, showing how the incident influenced safety regulations and public awareness of industrial hazards.
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