This photograph, taken in March 1915 during the Battle of Más a Tierra, pictures the German light cruiser, SMS Dresden at Juan Fernandez Island flying the white flag of surrender from the foremast prior to being scuttled by its crew.


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On 14th March 1915, having escaped the Battle of the Falkland Islands and fled into the Pacific Ocean, and having remained hidden for almost three months, SMS Dresden was detected and engaged in battle by HMS Glasgow and Kent. Having suffered extensive damage during the battle, Dresden's captain, Lüdecke raised the white flag of surrender and sent a boat to the Glasgow under the pretence of negotiation. In the meanwhile however, he ordered the crew to abandon ship and proceeded to scuttle the German vessel.


If you'd like to read more about the Battle of the Falkland Islands which immediately preceded the Battle of Más a Tierra, take a look at our Campaign title, Coronel and Falklands 1914: Duel in the South Atlantic.


The original image can be viewed here.