

The Real Pirates of the Caribbean
Mar 11, 2024
Explore the rise and fall of Caribbean pirates, from privateers to infamous buccaneers. Learn about the democratic nature of pirate ships, their laws at sea, and the governance structure onboard during the golden age of piracy. Discover the demise of Blackbeard, the capture of Steed Bonnet, and the harsh sentencing of over 400 men, marking the end of an era in the Caribbean's pirate history.
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Captain Kidd's Turn to Piracy
- Captain William Kidd was a British privateer who turned pirate after mistakenly attacking a friendly Mughal ship.
- Fearful of mutiny and death, he sailed to the lawless Caribbean, becoming one of the world’s most wanted men.
Privateering to Piracy Transition
- Privateers were legally allowed to attack enemy ships during war periods under official government permission.
- When wars ended, many privateers turned to piracy to continue raiding ships for treasure.
Nassau Pirate Republic Established
- Benjamin Hornigold and crew took over Nassau, turning it into a pirate republic and starting major Caribbean piracy.
- They attacked ships using speed and strategy, amassing fortunes and creating a haven for pirates.