

Episode 96: Pirates of the Caribbean with Jamie Goodall and Rebecca Simon
Sep 18, 2024
Join Jamie Goodall, a pirate history expert from the U.S. Army Center of Military History, and Rebecca Simon, a historian of early modern piracy, as they set sail into the world of swashbucklers. They dive into pirate mythology and superstitions, discuss the quirky life of Steve Bonnet, and reveal the significant roles women played in piracy. With humor and fascinating anecdotes, they explore how popular media, especially 'Pirates of the Caribbean,' shapes our perception of pirates and their cultural legacy.
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Steve Bonnet's Unusual Piracy
- Steve Bonnet bought his pirate ship instead of commandeering one, which was unusual for pirates.
- He paid his crew wages, which created challenges keeping them loyal and was part of his downfall.
Why We Love Pirates Today
- Pirates' continuing appeal lies in their role as anti-establishment figures and symbols of social mobility.
- People enjoy seeing rebellious "bad guys" like pirates succeed against the odds.
Common Pirate Myths Debunked
- Many myths about pirates, such as eye patches improving night vision, are false.
- Pirate accents come from exaggerated 1950s portrayals, not historical reality.