The story of how alcohol possibly saved a man’s life on the Titanic is as astonishing as it is unique. It revolves around Charles Joughin, the head baker aboard the Titanic. When the ship struck an iceberg on April 14, 1912, and began to sink, Joughin initially joined other crew members in loading passengers onto lifeboats. However, as the reality of the disaster set in, he did something unexpected – he fortified himself with a significant amount of alcohol, specifically whiskey. As the catastrophe unfolded, this decision would take on a surprising significance. According to his account, the alcohol eased his fear, enabling him to continue assisting others without succumbing to panic himself.
Joughin continued assisting in the evacuation until he was sure there were no remaining passengers in his section. Then, realizing he could no longer avoid the impending plunge, he prepared to meet the icy waters. At this point, the alcohol seemed to play an unlikely but pivotal role. When he finally had to enter the freezing North Atlantic, the effects of the alcohol in his system helped numb him against the shock and cold, enabling him to avoid the typical, paralyzing response that most people experience when exposed to such temperatures.
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In the icy sea, most Titanic passengers faced severe shock, hypothermia, and, ultimately, death within minutes. However, Joughin's experience defied these odds. Partially insulated by his clothing and sustained by an unusually calm demeanor (likely bolstered by the alcohol), he managed to survive for a prolonged period in the water – far longer than most others.
Though alcohol is often dangerous in extreme cold because it dilates blood vessels and can accelerate heat loss, Joughin’s story is an exception that seems to defy typical medical logic. Some historians argue that his calm demeanor, aided by alcohol, may have allowed him to float rather than panic and thrash, preserving his energy and heat. Eventually, Joughin was rescued by one of the lifeboats and brought aboard the RMS Carpathia, which had arrived to aid survivors.
Joughin’s survival stands as one of the most unlikely tales from that tragic night. His endurance in such extreme conditions is often credited to a mix of mental resilience and sheer luck. Though alcohol is typically discouraged in freezing temperatures due to its impact on blood circulation, Joughin’s astonishing experience remains a powerful example of beating the odds – a singular story within the Titanic’s tragic history.
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