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Edward John Smith
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Born on January 27th, 1850 at Hanlet, Stoke-on-Trent the son of a potter.
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He attended the Etruria British School until 13 and then went to Liverpool to begin a seafaring career. After apprenticing with Gibson & Co., Liverpool he joined the White Star Line in 1880.
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His first command was given in 1887 and he would go on to work on Republic, Coptic, Majestic, Baltic, Adriatic, and Olympic.
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He rose in seniority and was known for quiet flamboyance, the captain after all was not only responsible for the ship’s journey but the passengers’ experience as well so he likely needed to be very personable.
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As the most senior captain by the time the Titanic set sail it was no surprise he would be heading the maiden voyage especially as he planned to retire afterwards.
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He spent the journey aided by his personal valet, Arthur Paintin, known as “Tiger”
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Smith was awakened by the collision and rushed to the bridge immediately closing the watertight bulkheads and ordering the boats to be prepared as he inspected the ship with Thomas Andrews (played by Ted Guzman).
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Surprisingly little is known about his last actions, he was last seen on the bridge having made no clear attempt to save himself.
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