With the release of NBC’s new pirate series and interesting history of swashbucklers boasting the famous
pirate sword, we have come across eight captivating facts and myths. Here’s what we have got for you about the famous pirates of all times.
Their Careers Didn't Last Long
The job of pirates was always on a tough line and therefore they didn’t last long. Many were killed or injured during the battles. Even their eminent
pirate sword couldn’t save them from their fate. Medical facilities were very limited, for that reason, even the most hardcore pirates such as Blackbeard or Bartholomew Roberts were only alive for a couple of years. Roberts, who had a very successful career as a pirate only lived for three years from 1719 to 1722.
Blackbeard was the most dreaded pirate
Blackbeard was a renowned terrifying pirate in the world. Prior to conquering a ship, he would weave hemp into his mustache and light it on fire. It was a terrorization tactic that made him look no less than a demon. Isn’t that scary?
Jolly Roger
Though the origin of “Jolly Roger” has lost somewhere, it is often associated with the use of red flags. Many centuries ago, a red flag was prevalently used during marine battles as an indication that no mercy would be given which means that anyone who is captured will be killed immediately. The initial term “Joli Rogue” was later translated in English as Jolly Roger.
Pirates didn’t limit themselves to the Caribbean
The Caribbean was a perfect place for pirates. Though there were a number of undiscovered islands where these pirates used to go especially in the Golden Age. Many pirates have crossed the oceans to the west coast of Africa. While others sailed to the Indian Ocean to work the shipping lanes of southern Asia. Don’t forget the famous rich treasure ship Ganj-i-Sawai.
There were women pirates
It was rare but women were also seen holding
pirate sword and pistol while moving across seas. Among the most popular examples are Anne Bonny and Mary Read who sailed with Calico Jack in 1719. Both these women dressed as men and fought no less than male pirates. Later when Bonny and Red were captured, they said that they were pregnant and so they were not hanged along with others.
Not all pirates were crooks
In the warfare, many nations frequently used Letter of Marque and Reprisal which permitted the ship to outbreak rival ports and vessels. The famous examples of privateers were Sir Francis Drake and Captain Henry Morgan. They never attacked any English crafts, ports or traders and are known as the great conquerors among the common people of England. Though the Spanish consider them pirates.
Pirate Weapons
Pirates were the original Raiders of the high seas. They used a variety of weapons including pistols and swords. Famous swords such as
Spanish Main Buccaneer Pirate Sword were pretty similar to fencing style blades. They typically had a cupped hilt or close hilt for hand safety.
Pirates Rarely Buried Treasure
Few pirates buried treasure and among them, the most notable one is Captain William Kidd. Firstly, most of the treasure was divided among the pirates quickly after the attack. Secondly, much of the treasure comprised of perishable goods such as fabric, food etc. that would soon get destroyed if buried. This myth is created after the popular classic novel, the Treasure Island.
Conclusion
The Golden Age of Piracy persisted from about 1700 to 1725. During this time period, a number of men and women turned to piracy as a way of making a living. The conditions were ideal for pirates to flourish. We hope you have enjoyed these thought-provoking facts about pirates. We look forward to your feedback.
