SS Normandie in New York Harbor in 1935; SS Normandie/USS Lafayette burns in 1942

During World War II, on December 22, 1941, the United States seized a ship caught in port. The ship, cheered by the Chino, was renamed USS Lafayette and was to be refitted for troop transport. However, on February 9, 1942, a fire broke out on the ship, fanned by a northwesterly wind, turning it into an all-engulfing blaze, burning the wooden decks.

What significant event occurred on December 22nd, 1941, involving the United States?

• The United States signed a peace treaty.

• The United States launched a new battleship.

• The United States seized an enemy ship.

• The United States declared war on Germany.

What was the original name of the ship that was to be renamed USS Lafayette?

• The Lusitania

• The Normandy

• The Queen Mary

• The Titanic

What was the intended purpose of the USS Lafayette after its refitting?

• To be a fishing vessel

• To transport troops

• To be a cargo ship

• To serve as a luxury liner

What caused the fire on the ship on February 9th, 1942?

• A malfunction in the engine room

• A sudden northwesterly wind

• A lightning strike

• An enemy attack

What material on the ship contributed to the rapid spread of the fire?

• Metal hull

• Wooden decks

• Plastic fittings

• Rubber tires