Olympic & Titanic — An Analysis of the Robin Gardiner Conspiracy Theory

Introduction:

• The dissertation aims to analyze Gardiner’s conspiracy theory, which claims that the Titanic was swapped with the Olympic and deliberately sunk to claim insurance money.

The Olympic-Hawke Collision:

• Gardiner’s theory hinges on the idea that the Olympic was severely damaged in a collision with HMS Hawke in 1911.
• Primary sources and expert testimonies from the time indicate that the damage was not as severe as Gardiner claims.
• Gardiner’s assertions about the extent of the damage, including a broken keel and turbine engine damage, are not supported by evidence.

Gardiner’s Methodology:

• Gardiner’s methodology is criticized for selective use of evidence, omission of relevant information, and speculative assertions.
• Examples include misrepresenting the configuration of Titanic’s B-deck and the ship’s speed and coal supply.
• Gardiner’s claims about the ship’s bells and the name on the wreck are also questioned.

Insurance:

• The Titanic was under-insured, covering only two-thirds of its cost.
• Gardiner’s theory does not adequately address the financial implications and practicalities of swapping the ships.
• The financial health of the White Star Line and its parent company, IMM, suggests that the company could absorb the costs of the Olympic’s repairs without resorting to fraud.

Conclusion:

• The dissertation concludes that Gardiner’s theory does not hold up to rigorous historical analysis.
• The damage to the Olympic was not as severe as claimed, and the methodology used by Gardiner is flawed.
• The financial and practical aspects of the conspiracy theory are not convincing.