SS United States

The ‘SS United States’ was a great symbol of post-World War II American genius. She was the most advanced ocean liner of her time—modern, innovative and hugely powerful. Designed to be a commercial liner but easily convertible to wartime troopship, she entered service in July 1952, seventy years ago, to rousing triumph and success. She captured the prized Blue Riband for transatlantic speed, brought glory to America and her owners, and enjoyed great success for a full decade. But after trans-ocean jets arrived, her success slowly faded until fully decommissioned by 1969. Over fifty years of idleness, revival plans and schemes, and neglect and decay followed. To this day, the ‘United States’ waits silently at a Philadelphia pier. This is the story of a very great and beloved ship—her glory days, but also her days of struggle and indecision.