Pirates Throughout History

Pirates are criminals who steal goods and services from other people. They often use violence and fear to make people surrender their valuables. Pirates have existed throughout history and are still active in the modern world. Piracy is related to terrorism and has been linked to such events as the hijacking of the Achille Lauro cruise ship in 1985 and the September 11 attacks on America.

Thousands of pirates were active between 1650 and 1720, which is sometimes called the Golden Age of Piracy. Famous pirates from this time include Blackbeard (Edward Teach), Henry Morgan, William 'Captain' Kidd, Calico Jack Rackham and Bartholomew Roberts.

People who chose to live the life of a pirate were often poor and violent. The prospect of riches and glory enticed them to turn to piracy. They also enjoyed the sense of adventure and the thrill of a fight against a superior foe.

A pirate ship was usually faster and more powerful than a merchant vessel of the same size. This enabled the pirates to outnumber their victims and win a battle. In addition, pirates often modified their ships to carry far more cannon than normal. They would fly a gruesome flag, like the Jolly Roger with its picture of a skull and crossbones, which served to scare away potential victims.

Pirates who were armed with a royal warrant or letter of marque, allowing them to attack the ships of enemy governments, were called privateers. They were considered hostis humani generis, meaning enemies of all humanity and therefore could be treated as prisoners of war if captured.