The RMS Titanic struck an iceberg at midnight on April 15, 1912 and sank within three hours, resulting in the deaths of over 1,500 people. The Titanic was traveling too fast while trying to win a competition to cross the Atlantic, and its captain went down with the ship despite refusing to leave. Many passengers and crew members selflessly sacrificed themselves to help women and children escape on the lifeboats. John Harper risked his life to assist others, while some crew members stayed behind playing cards so passengers could board lifeboats. Those who died in the sinking demonstrated great bravery.