Cannibalism, insanity and class warfare: The tragedy behind 'The Raft of the Medusa' painting

On July 2, 1816, the French frigate "La Méduse" ran aground. The crew built a raft, and 147 people were towed by lifeboats. Unable to continue the difficult task, the crews of the lifeboats cut the tow lines. Thirteen days later, those on the raft were rescued. There were 15 survivors. Five more died within days leaving only 10 survivors of the 147 who were initially on the raft.