Dark Tide Purposes

Dark Tide had many purposes in my view. First and foremost, bringing attention to a commonly overlooked historic event was something that Puleo obviously wanted to accomplish. His attempt was successful and he allows the reader to become extremely knowledgeable on something that they would not have known otherwise. This purpose is most obvious, but what is not so obvious are some of the ramifications of the tank bursting. Puleo describes the aftermath of the tank and how it led to the most extensive civil court case in Massachusetts’ history. This case was the foundation of many more to come. Another purpose that is brought to the reader’s attention is the importance of molasses during that time period. Not only was it used as a sweetener, but it was also used for industrial purposes and manufacturing. Overall, Puleo brings about many purposes of the novel and successful meets the expectations.

Question: If an event such as the great molasses flood happen today, do you believe that it would be so easily overlook in future years?