Quint's 'Jaws Story' Explained: Why Sharks Attacked The USS Indianapolis

“…eleven hundred men went into the water, three hundred sixteen men come out, and the sharks took the rest…”

When Quint (Robert Shaw) tells the horrific true story about the sinking of the USS Indianapolis, it not only explains his hatred for sharks but also is one of the reasons why Steven Spielberg’s shark thriller JAWS demands multiple viewings. Watching Jaws for the second, third or even the 100th time knowing Quint’s tragic story, you pick up so much more about the character. We discuss this in more depth in our blog: Why Quint's 'Indianapolis Speech' in Jaws is the greatest movie monologue ever.

Considering the speech wasn’t part of the original story - it is not mentioned in Peter Benchley’s source novel, nor written as part of the initial screenplays. It’s inclusion and execution was a stroke of genius that should have earned Robert Shaw an Academy Award nomination at the least. Jaws screenwriter Carl Gottlieb explains story behind Quint’s USS Indianapolis speech.

However, one aspect of the worst naval tragedy in history has never been fully explained: Why did sharks attack the USS Indianapolis? Join shark scientist Kristian Parton as he delves into the tragic events of the USS Indianapolis. What sharks attacked the sailors of the USS Indianapolis? Why did they attack? How many attacks actually happened? Come and learn the TRUTH about the USS Indianapolis shark attack from the perspective of a shark scientist!

Shark Bytes is a youtube channel dedicated to bringing you all the latest news, research and information about sharks around the world! Kristian Parton is a current marine biologist and shark researcher who has spent many years working with sharks in the field and laboratory. Having a passion for sharks and rays from a young age, Kristian now wants to bring the weird and wonderful world of sharks to your screens at home!

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