Although the RMS TITANIC was registered as being a British mailing ship, she was, in reality, owned by an American named J.P. Morgan. Although he controlled much of the American railroads at that time, he wanted to furthur expand his interests into the Atlantic shipping trade. Using his vast wealth, he had acquired the White Star Line in 1902.

Because of the size of the Olympic class ships (of which the Titanic was a part of), White Star requested that the City of New York increase and extend the piers in the harbour. However, the city quickly refused arguing that longer piers would create a navigational nightmare. Morgan, who owned much of New York and who could greatly influence its economy, quietly persuaded the city council into accepting the request.

Mr. Morgan was scheduled to sail on the Titanic for her maiden in his own private suite. However, he cancelled his voyage at the last minute and was spared from the fate so many others would suffer.

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